Re: Scared to start Mirtazapine
Originally Posted by
Anxiouscow
I have been diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disorder again recently, after taking Fluoxetine in 2014 and Sertraline in 2016. My doctor has prescribed 15mg of Mirtazapine, to help with sleep and general anxiety.
Is there a reason for selecting mirtazapine instead of either fluoxetine, or sertraline?
I'm really scared to start as I've experienced side effects with AD's before, and I really don't want them again.
The common initial side-effects, or ongoing ones? If the latter then what were they and how much fluoxetine, or sertraline were you taking?
I'm not too bothered about the gaining weight thing, but I'm more worried about sedation and being like a zombie all day...
15mg is likely to be sedating and that may continue into the next day. Mirtazapine is more a sedating antihistamine than antidepressant. However, it is impossible to predict how you will be affected. A few find it stimulating. Higher doses are usually less sedating.
I'm also scared they will change my personality, or make me feel incapable of feeling love, or happiness, and other natural emotions.
While these can sometimes occur, it is very much the rare exception, not the norm. Usually a switch to another AD will resolve the issue. Did you experience any of these on either fluoxetine, or sertraline?
__________________
The opinions expressed above are based on my observations and, where applicable, interpretation of cited data and are general in nature. Consult your physician before acting on anything stated.