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Mirtazapine in Veterinary Medicine - Facts and Information

Mirtazapine

Updated on September 10, 2024

Mirtazapine, is an antidepressant in humans, that may be used in dogs and cats for appetite stimulation and antiemetic properties

Mirtazapine

Summary

Used For:

Appetite stimulant, anti-nausea medication

Brands:

Remeron®

Species:

Cats and dogs

Drug type:

Antidepressant

Prescription required:

Yes

Pregnancy and lactation:

Use with caution in pregnant and lactating animals due to unknown effects

Side effects:

Sedation, low blood pressure, increased heart rate, behavioral changes, increased vocalization
 

General description

Mirtazepine is an antidepressant medication most often used in human medicine. In veterinary medicine, it is primarily used in dogs and cats to increase appetite and improve signs of nausea associated with a variety of health conditions, including kidney disease.

Uses

Appetite stimulant, anti-nausea medication. Used extra-label in veterinary medicine

How it works

Mirtazapine causes increases in serum norepinephrine and blocks serotonin receptors, which may account for appetite stimulation and anti-nausea properties.

Dosage

Dogs: 3.75-30 milligrams by mouth once daily, depending on the dog’s body weight Cats: 1.88 milligrams per cat by mouth every 24-48 hours.

Forms

Mirtazepine tablets for oral use available in 7.5 milligram, 15 milligram, 30 milligram, & 45 milligram sizes; mirtazepine orally disintegrating tablets available in 15 milligram, 30 milligram, & 45 milligram sizes **(Note: some generic orally disintegrating tablets contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.)**

Storage information & handling

Store in a childproof container at room temperature, out of the reach of pets and children.

What results can I expect?

Increased in appetite and decrease in vomiting

Missed Dosage

If a dose is missed, give the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and give the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Do not give two doses at once.

Overdose / acute toxicity

If an overdose is known or suspected, seek veterinary attention immediately. Signs of an overdose can include tremors, vocalization, agitation, panting, lethargy, vomiting, increased heart rate, and ataxia (abnormal, wobbly gait).

Side effects

*Sedation *Behavior changes *Vocalization *Hypotension (low blood pressure) *Tachycardia (increased heart rate) *Elevated liver enzymes in some cats

Contraindications

*Previous sensitivity *Use with caution with pre-existing heart disease or blood pressure changes *Use with caution in patients with changes in red or white blood cells, or platelets

Drug interactions

Clonidine, cyproheptadine, diazepam (and other benzodiazepines), linezolid, tramadol, amitraz, selegiline, and fluvoxamine can all interact with mirtazepine. Always discuss any medication or supplements with your veterinarian due to potential drug interactions.

Precaution

Use with caution in patients with pre-existing heart disease or blood pressure changes, as well as changes in red or white blood cells, or platelets. Use with caution in pregnant or lactating animals.

Sources

Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook

Related Questions

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My dog I heated uses tampon is it an emergency

Unfortunately I'm having a little trouble understand your question as I'm not sure what you mean by "My dog I heated uses tampons..." I'm wondering if Bella ate a tampon or if you wanted to use one on her while she is in heat. I will answer both to be safe. If she ate a tampon, then yes this is a medical emergency and she has to see a vet now. Tampons can easily cause obstructions in the GI tract, especially since they are absorbent and can get large in the stomach from liquid in there. if Bella ate a tampon, you need to take her into a vet immediately to get it removed. If she is on heat, no you cannot use a tampon to control her bleeding. It's not safe to use at all, and are not meant for dogs. You can put a diaper on her to catch any bloody discharge. There are dog specific diapers online and at pets stores, or you can use one made of a human child. Just cut a hole in it for her tail. Hopefully this answers your question. If it doesn't, I'm sorry and ask you post again in the forum for free to it can get answered!

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I'm glad to see that Pippin has been neutered because this eliminates that possibility of hormone-fueled behavioral changes and aggression. Behavioral changes in cats can occur at any point in time, and could be related to anxiety or stressful situations (even rearranging furniture or introducing new people to the home can be stressful to cats). Without a lot more information and observing Pippin's behaviors, I can't precisely tell you why these changes are occurring. It may be best to consult a veterinary behaviorist in your home so that they can observe everything firsthand. You can also try using calming pheromone collars or diffusers (Feliway is one example), and discussing the use of anxiety medication with Pippin's vet. I hope that all goes well!

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Cats can develop what's called diabetic neuropathy, where their hindlegs become progressively weak. The best thing to do is try to get his diabetes under control as quickly as possible. Here is a link describing the conditon: http://www.diabeticcatcare.com/DCCCOK/Neuropathy.htm

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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.