Can you take Mirtazapine and Buspar together?

In this article, we will discuss the concomitant use of Mirtazapine and Buspirone. We will also talk about the potential dangers of this combination and some safe alternatives to help manage your symptoms without harming your health.

Can you take Mirtazapine and Buspar together?

No, you should not take Mirtazapine (Remeron) and Buspirone (Buspar) together. These medications can cause a serious interaction when taken together and are not something that’s used in a clinical setting normally. 

Mirtazapine is an antidepressant and Buspar is an anti-anxiety medication (1,2). They both work on the chemicals in your brain and balance them to help your symptoms. 

Taking multiple medications that can affect your neurotransmitters is a tricky business, and only your doctor can help determine the best combination of antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. 

Each individual is unique and has different factors affecting their health. What works for one may not work for another, and such combinations are not tolerable for every single person out there. 

What are the potential risks of taking Mirtazapine and Buspar together?

When combining Mirtazapine and Buspar, there are potential risks to be aware of, including the rare but serious condition known as serotonin syndrome – which is the most concerning one. 

Both of these medications can increase serotonin levels in the brain, and when serotonin levels become too high, it can lead to serotonin syndrome, which is potentially life-threatening. (3)

Serotonin syndrome symptoms may include: (3)

• Agitation
• Confusion
• Rapid heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Dilated pupils
• Muscle rigidity
• Tremors
• Sweating
• Diarrhoea
• Shivering
• Fever

If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect serotonin syndrome, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. This condition can progress rapidly and needs immediate treatment to prevent serious complications.

In addition to serotonin syndrome, combining these medications may lead to other potential side effects, which can vary from person to person. 

Common side effects may include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, and changes in appetite or weight (more common with Mirtazapine compared to Buspar). (4,5)

It’s essential to use this medication combination only under the close supervision of a healthcare provider who can monitor your response and adjust your treatment as needed. 

What are the alternatives to taking Mirtazapine and Buspar together? 

There are several alternatives to taking Mirtazapine and Buspar together for managing anxiety and depression. 

One common approach is the use of SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), which are effective medications for both conditions. However, it’s important to note that some individuals may experience early insomnia as a side effect when starting SSRIs. (6)

To address early insomnia and anxiety during this period, some doctors may combine an SSRI like Sertraline with a benzodiazepine like Diazepam, Clonazepam or Lorazepam. 

These benzodiazepines can help manage insomnia and reduce anxiety until the SSRI takes full effect. (7)

However, such combinations must be prescribed and adjusted by a healthcare provider because benzodiazepines carry their own set of potential risks and can be habit-forming.

Another option is to combine Mirtazapine with an SSRI, but this should also be done under a doctor’s guidance. Mirtazapine can enhance the effects of SSRIs and may help alleviate certain side effects like insomnia. 

The dosages of each medication should be carefully adjusted to ensure safety and effectiveness. Ultimately, the choice of treatment should be based on an individual’s specific symptoms, medical history, and response to medications. 

It’s essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment plan, and any medication changes or combinations should always be made under their supervision. 

Conclusion

In this article, we have discussed the concomitant use of Mirtazapine and Buspirone. We have also talked about the potential dangers of this combination and some safe alternatives to help manage your symptoms without harming your health.

References