Atypical antidepressant (NaSSA)
How to stop taking Mirtazapine
Discontinuing Mirtazapine (Mirtazapine) is, for most people, safe and uneventful. For a few medications and indications, abrupt stopping can cause rebound symptoms, withdrawal-like effects or loss of disease control, so a tapered stop is preferred. Whether Mirtazapine at 7.5mg, 15mg, 30mg, 45mg needs a taper depends on the active ingredient and the duration of use.
When to taper Mirtazapine
Tapering is generally preferred when Mirtazapine has been used continuously for months and the active ingredient Mirtazapine produces neuroadaptive changes that take time to reverse. Mirtazapine antagonises presynaptic α2-adrenergic autoreceptors and heteroreceptors, increasing noradrenaline and serotonin release. For event-driven use, no taper is needed — simply stopping is appropriate. The prescriber decides the schedule based on the indication and dose.
What to expect when stopping
After stopping Mirtazapine at 7.5mg, 15mg, 30mg, 45mg, the underlying condition may return as the medication washes out — this is loss of treatment effect, not withdrawal in the strict sense. Some active ingredients also produce specific discontinuation syndromes, which a tapered stop minimises. Persistent or severe symptoms after stopping deserve medical review.
Frequently asked questions
Can I just stop taking Mirtazapine? ▾
For event-driven use of Mirtazapine at 7.5mg, 15mg, 30mg, 45mg, yes — simply stopping is fine. For chronic continuous use, abrupt stopping can be appropriate for some active ingredients and inadvisable for others. Confirm with the prescriber before stopping.
Will I have withdrawal from Mirtazapine? ▾
True withdrawal is uncommon with most Atypical antidepressant (NaSSA) agents. What is sometimes mistaken for withdrawal is the return of the underlying condition. The prescribing information for Mirtazapine lists any documented discontinuation effects to expect.
Products containing Mirtazapine
More on Mirtazapine
- With alcoholMirtazapine and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Mirtazapine be taken with food?
- Side effectsMirtazapine side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideMirtazapine dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Mirtazapine start working?
- DurationHow long does Mirtazapine last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.