Avanza (Mirtazapine) for Depression: Uses, Side Effects & Information

Avanza is the brand name under which the prescription medication mirtazapine is sold in Australia. It is sold as Remeron in the U.S. Avanza is used in the treatment of moderate to severe cases of depression.

Classification

• Avanza is classified as a tetracyclic antidepressant, reports drugs.com. It is also considered a noradrenergic and specific serotonergic antidepressant or NaSSA, according to biopsychiatry.com.

Function

• The nature of how Avanza elevates mood is not precisely understood. It is believed to increase the activity of norepinephrine and serotonin, which are both linked to mood, reports drugs.com

Side effects

• Avanza is generally well tolerated but may cause increased weight or appetite, drowsiness and abnormal thoughts or dreams. Severe reactions may include rashes, hives, allergic swelling, reduced immune function and more severe depression.

Dosage

• The medication is taken orally in a tablet form. The dosage of the medication will be determined by the prescribing physician but is typically between 15 to 45 milligrams a day, according to drugs.com.

Pregnancy

• It is not clear whether mirtazapine will harm a fetus or be conducted through breast milk. As such, a pregnant or nursing woman should inform her physician about her condition prior to taking mirtazapine.