Outcomes after isolated mirtazapine (Remeron) supratherapeutic ingestions

J Emerg Med. 2008 Jan;34(1):77-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2007.03.006. Epub 2007 Jul 31.

Abstract

Mirtazapine (Remeron) is a newly approved medication for the treatment of depression. It is an alpha(2)-adrenergic antagonist that causes increased levels of neuronal norepinephrine and serotonin. It is also believed to be an antagonist at the serotonin receptors 5-HT(2) and 5-HT(3). Little is known about isolated mirtazapine ingestions. We conducted a retrospective chart review of mirtazapine ingestions reported to our Poison Center during 2004. A standardized data sheet was completed collecting information regarding standard demographic data along with co-ingestants, neurologic and cardiovascular symptoms, and disposition. Data collection was reviewed by a second investigator, and a kappa score was calculated. Of 71 patients identified with mirtazapine ingestions, there were 33 isolated exposures that were further reviewed. A kappa score for inter-reviewer reliability was calculated and at 0.61, 95% confidence interval 56-70. The average age of these patients was 27 years (range 6-82 years), with the mean ingestion of 343 mg (range 15-1500 mg). The most common neurologic symptom was drowsiness seen in 8/23 patients, 1 patient became agitated, and 14 patients had no abnormal neurologic findings. Cardiovascular effects were recorded in 4/23 patients, with 3 patients exhibiting tachycardia and 1 patient with bradycardia and hypotension. Seven of 23 patients required admission; there were no deaths. Mirtazapine overdoses are generally very well tolerated, with the most common symptoms being drowsiness and lethargy. This study is limited by being a retrospective chart review.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Antidepressive Agents, Tricyclic / poisoning*
  • Child
  • Drug Overdose
  • Humans
  • Medical Audit
  • Mianserin / analogs & derivatives*
  • Mianserin / poisoning
  • Middle Aged
  • Mirtazapine
  • Poison Control Centers
  • Poisoning / epidemiology
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents, Tricyclic
  • Mianserin
  • Mirtazapine