Remeron Addiction and Abuse

Remeron is the brand name for the antidepressant medication known as Mirtazapine. This drug is most commonly used to treat depressive disorders and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Remeron helps to improve mood and treat symptoms of depression by balancing certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

Remeron is used to help enhance feelings of happiness and overall well-being however these positive effects are often the reason many people abuse this drug. Abusing Remeron can cause dangerous side effects and lead to physical dependence or addiction.

Understanding Remeron (Mirtazapine)

Remeron, otherwise known as Mirtazapine, is a tetracyclic antidepressant that works by increasing the amount of specific neurotransmitters in the brain. It raises the level of serotonin and norepinephrine which are responsible for producing feelings of happiness and regulating stress within the body. Remeron also helps balance and regulate the central nervous system.

Remeron is most commonly used to treat major depressive disorder but has also been used to treat anxiety disorders (GAD and social anxiety disorder), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Doctors typically prescribe this medication for a 40-day period, however, because Remeron produces calming, mood-boosting effects, it is often used inappropriately and causes negative side effects.

Remeron Side Effects and Abuse

Remeron helps treat different mental disorders by enhancing overall mood and well-being, improving sleep and appetite, and reducing symptoms of anxiety or nervousness. Remeron has been proven to help treat major depressive disorder and other mental health disorders, however, there are several side effects that may occur from taking this drug.

Side effects from Remeron include:

  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Weight gain
  • Increased appetite
  • Constipation
  • Drowsiness
  • Body aches
  • Confusion

Some of the most concerning adverse effects from taking Remeron include psychological effects. This includes sudden behavioral changes, increased symptoms of depression or anxiety, panic episodes, or thought of self-harm or suicide. Speak with your prescribing doctor immediately if you are experiencing any of these psychological side effects before they worsen.

Regardless of some of the negative side effects, Remeron is still abused. People who abuse this drug do so by taking it without a prescription, taking more than the prescribed amount, or mixing it with other drugs or alcohol to enhance the mood-boosting effects. Abusing this drug increases the chances of experiencing worsening side effects, and can lead to serious health issues.

Common side effects from abusing Remeron include stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, nightmares, convulsion, cognitive problems, and suicidal ideations or attempts.

Remeron can have negative interactions when mixed with other drugs and it is crucial that you inform your prescribing doctor of any current medications and any past or current medical conditions to avoid dangerous toxicity.

Remeron Addiction Symptoms

Although the effects of Remeron are mild in comparison to other addictive drugs, it is still possible to become physically dependent and/or addicted to this medication. Once a person has become physically dependent on Remeron, typically by abusing this drug, they may experience unpleasant withdrawal effects once stopping the use of this medication. Withdrawal symptoms from Remeron include increased depression or sadness, irritability, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, night terrors, night sweats, and headaches.

Despite the fact that these withdrawal symptoms are only temporary, many people will continue the use of Remeron in order to avoid the uncomfortable and unpleasant feelings which often leads to addiction.

Signs that someone may be addicted to Remeron include: 

  • Taking the drug after no longer needing it
  • Requiring or craving more of the drug to reach the desired effect (tolerance) 
  • Constant thoughts of the drug or how to obtain more 
 
  • Inability to stop the use of the drug
  • Lying about symptoms in order to obtain more of the prescribed drug
  • Sudden and unexpected changes to physical appearance and behavior 

Remeron can have negative interactions with several types of drugs, especially other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol or other anti-depressant and anti-anxiety medications.

If too much Remeron is taken at a time, or if mixed with other drugs, the chances of experiencing an overdose are greatly increased. Overdosing on Remeron can lead to dangerous and life-threatening issues.

Signs of a Remeron overdose include:

  • Hallucinations
  • Extreme drowsiness
  • Vomiting
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Increased heart rate
  • Slurred speech
  • Chest pain

Remeron overdose can lead to issues such as cardiac arrest, dangerously low blood pressure, seizures, or death. Seek medical attention immediately if any signs of an overdose are present.

Fighting a Remeron Addiction? Get Help Today

Remeron helps to treat a variety of mental health disorders, most commonly major depressive disorder. However, if abused, this antidepressant can cause destructive behaviors, leading to dependence or addiction.

If you are struggling with a Remeron addiction, or have found yourself abusing this drug, contact Quit Addiction Now (888 974-2973) to learn more about treatment options available to you.

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