Written by Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc on the Jan.16, 2024
Petdirect is dedicated to providing educational pet health content for pet parents. This article was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer common questions about your pet’s medication. Our focus is on delivering unbiased information to help you understand how medication works, its potential side effects, and FAQs for your reference. Always administer medication directly as prescribed by your vet. This article shouldn’t take the place of advice from your vet.
Mirtazapine is a medication primarily used in cats and dogs to address issues related to loss of appetite and nausea, often seen in conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, or stomach. It's also used in cases where pets undergo chemotherapy, leading to decreased food intake.
While the exact mechanism of Mirtazapine in pets is not fully understood, it's known to increase certain neurotransmitters in the brain, contributing to appetite stimulation. It acts as an antagonist to specific brain receptors linked to appetite inhibition and vomiting control.
Please adhere to the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian, however, as a general guideline:
For dogs, the medication is usually administered orally in tablet form once a day. The dosage may vary based on the dog's condition and response to the medication.
For cats, the medication is available in tablet form and should be administered every one to three days. It's important to ensure dosing precision due to cats' sensitivity to the medication.
Overdose:
Typical symptoms of a Mirtazapine overdose can include increased vocalisation, vomiting, irregular walking patterns (ataxia), fidgetiness, shaking (tremors), excessive salivation, accelerated breathing rate, raised heart rate, and drowsiness.
In case of any adverse reactions or suspected overdoses related to Mirtazapine in your pet, immediately contact your veterinarian or the New Zealand National Poisons Centre at www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or phone 0800 869 738 for guidance.
Do not use in pets with known hypersensitivity or allergy to mirtazapine.
Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as selegiline, due to the risk of serotonin syndrome.
Use with caution in pets with a history of heart disease, as it can cause tachycardia (elevated heart rate).
Use with caution in pets with liver or kidney disease, as these conditions may affect the metabolism and excretion of the drug.
Use with caution in pets with a history of severe agitation or aggression, as mirtazapine can sometimes exacerbate these behaviors.
Interactions with Other Medications:
It is important to consult your veterinarian for all medication your pet is taking. Mirtazapine should not be used in conjunction with certain drugs, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, as these combinations can lead to serious side effects.
As with most medications, Mirtazapine can cause some side effects in pets. Common side effects may include:
In terms of more serious side effects, watch for signs of serotonin syndrome, such as elevated heart rate, tremors, or difficulty breathing. Consult a veterinarian immediately if these symptoms are observed.
Mirtazapine should be stored at room temperature, ensuring it is out of reach of children and other pets.
What conditions does Mirtazapine treat in pets?
Are there any side effects of Mirtazapine in pets?
Can Mirtazapine be used in pets with liver or kidney disease?
Is there a risk of interaction with other medications?
Understanding the role and implications of Mirtazapine in the health of our pets is essential for responsible pet care. While it offers benefits in managing appetite and nausea, careful consideration and guidance from a veterinarian are imperative. We hope this article provides a clear understanding of Mirtazapine for your pet. Remember, always seek advice from your veterinarian for any health-related decisions for your pets.