Mitraz 30 mg

Description

“Mitraz 30 mg” refers to a medication containing Mirtazapine 30mg. Mirtazapine is an antidepressant that belongs to a class of drugs known as Noradrenergic and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressants (NaSSAs).

Key Component: Mirtazapine (30mg)

Mirtazapine works in the brain by affecting the balance of certain chemical messengers, primarily:

• Increasing Norepinephrine and Serotonin: Unlike some other antidepressants (like SSRIs that primarily target serotonin), Mirtazapine uniquely enhances the release of both norepinephrine (noradrenaline) and serotonin. These neurotransmitters play crucial roles in mood regulation, sleep, appetite, and other brain functions.
• Blocking Alpha-2 Adrenergic Receptors: This action leads to an increased release of norepinephrine and, indirectly, serotonin.
• Blocking Serotonin 5-HT2 and 5-HT3 Receptors: This specific action is thought to contribute to its antidepressant effects and may help reduce some common side effects seen with other antidepressants, such as nausea and sexual dysfunction. It also contributes to its sedative effects and appetite stimulation.
• Blocking Histamine H1 Receptors: This action contributes to its sedative properties and can lead to increased appetite and weight gain.

Uses and Benefits

Mitraz 30 mg (Mirtazapine) is primarily used in adults for the treatment of:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): It helps to improve mood, increase energy levels, restore interest in activities, and alleviate other symptoms of depression such as sadness, feelings of worthlessness, and sleep disturbances.
• Insomnia: Due to its significant sedative effects, it is often prescribed to individuals with depression who also experience severe insomnia.
• Anxiety: It can also help manage anxiety symptoms that often co-occur with depression.
• Appetite Stimulation/Weight Gain: In some cases, its side effect of increasing appetite and leading to weight gain can be beneficial for individuals with depression who have experienced significant weight loss or poor appetite.

Benefits of Mitraz 30 mg include:

• Effective Antidepressant: Provides significant relief from depressive symptoms.
• Faster Onset of Action: Some studies suggest it may have a quicker onset of antidepressant action compared to some other antidepressants.
• Improves Sleep: Its sedative properties can be very helpful for individuals struggling with sleep disturbances related to depression.
• Good for Anxiety: Can alleviate anxiety symptoms accompanying depression.

Dosage and Administration

• Always take this medicine exactly as advised by your physician. It is crucial to follow the doctor’s instructions for dosage and duration.
• Mitraz 30 mg is typically taken once daily, preferably in the evening or at bedtime, due to its sedative effects.
• It can be taken with or without food.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush it.
• Do not stop taking Mitraz 30 mg suddenly. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, abnormal dreams, agitation, anxiety, tremor, nausea, and headache. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dose over several weeks when it’s time to stop treatment.
• It may take 1 to 2 weeks for symptoms to start improving, and the full antidepressant effect may take 4 to 6 weeks or even longer. Continue taking the medicine as prescribed even if you don’t feel immediate improvement.

Potential Side Effects

Mirtazapine can cause various side effects, some of which are very common:

Very Common (more than 1 in 10 people):

• Drowsiness/Sedation: Especially at the beginning of treatment.
• Increased Appetite and Weight Gain: A significant and common side effect.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
• Headache

Common (1 to 10 in 100 people):

• Lethargy, dizziness, tremor
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation
• Abnormal dreams, confusion, anxiety, insomnia
• Swelling (edema) in ankles or feet (peripheral edema)
• Muscle aches (myalgia), joint aches (arthralgia), back pain
• Orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing up, causing dizziness)

Less Common/Rare (but serious):

• Agranulocytosis: A serious reduction in white blood cells, making you very susceptible to infections. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of infection like high fever, sore throat, or mouth ulcers.
• Serotonin Syndrome: A potentially life-threatening condition when used with other serotonergic drugs (e.g., SSRIs, triptans, tramadol, St. John’s wort). Symptoms include high fever, sweating, fast heart rate, diarrhea, muscle rigidity, shivering, confusion, and agitation.
• Seizures
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Mania or hypomania (in individuals with bipolar disorder)
• Elevation of liver enzymes; rarely, liver inflammation (hepatitis)
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Restless legs syndrome
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior (especially in young adults, particularly at the start of treatment or with dose changes).

Important Considerations and Safety Advice

• Medical Consultation is Essential: Mitraz 30 mg is a powerful antidepressant and requires diagnosis and ongoing supervision by a doctor.
• Suicidal Thoughts: Monitor closely for any worsening of depression or emergence of suicidal thoughts or unusual behavioral changes, especially at the beginning of treatment or with dose adjustments, particularly in young adults (<25 years).
• Alcohol: UNSAFE. Avoid consuming alcohol completely while on Mirtazapine, as it can significantly enhance its sedative effects and increase the risk of other side effects.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: Mirtazapine can cause significant drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired concentration. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Diabetes: Use with caution in diabetic patients as it can affect blood sugar control.
• Glaucoma: Use with caution in patients with angle-closure glaucoma or increased intraocular pressure.
• Kidney/Liver Impairment: Use with caution and potential dose adjustment in patients with kidney or liver disease.
• Cardiovascular Conditions: Use with caution in patients with heart conditions, including low blood pressure or a history of heart attack or stroke.
• Epilepsy/Seizures: Use with caution in patients with a history of epilepsy or seizures.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, especially:
  • MAO Inhibitors (MAOIs): (e.g., moclobemide, tranylcypromine, selegiline) – Contraindicated. Do not use Mirtazapine within 14 days of stopping an MAOI, or vice versa, due to the risk of Serotonin Syndrome.
  • Other Serotonergic Drugs: (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs like venlafaxine, duloxetine; triptans for migraines; tramadol; lithium; St. John’s wort) – increased risk of Serotonin Syndrome.
  • CNS Depressants: (e.g., benzodiazepines, other sedatives, antihistamines, opioids) – increased sedative effects.
  • Warfarin (blood thinner): Mirtazapine can affect its metabolism and increase the risk of bleeding.
  • Carbamazepine, Phenytoin: Can reduce Mirtazapine levels.
  • Ketoconazole, Erythromycin, HIV protease inhibitors, Cimetidine: Can increase Mirtazapine levels.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Never stop treatment abruptly.

Manufacturer and Availability in Nepal

“Mitraz 30 mg” is a brand name for Mirtazapine. In Nepal, “Mirtaz 30mg Tablet” is available from manufacturers like Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (India). It is widely available in pharmacies across Nepal, including online platforms like NepMeds and ePharmacy.com.np.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.