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Remeron vs. Restoril

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Mirtazapine (Remeron) and temazepam (Restoril) are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Mirtazapine is an atypical antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults, while temazepam is a benzodiazepine used for the short-term treatment of insomnia. Mirtazapine is taken once daily, typically at night, and can cause side effects like sleepiness and weight gain. In contrast, temazepam is also taken once daily at bedtime but is only recommended for short-term use (7 to 10 days) due to risks of misuse, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms. Mirtazapine is not a controlled substance, whereas temazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance, indicating a potential for dependence. Additionally, mirtazapine can take up to 2 months to show full benefits, while temazepam usually starts working within 30 minutes. Both medications have generic versions available, making them more affordable options.

Mirtazapine

(Remeron)

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Temazepam

(Restoril)

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Summary for Remeron

Prescription only

Mirtazapine (Remeron) is an atypical antidepressant (or more specifically, tetracyclic antidepressant). It's used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. Mirtazapine (Remeron) is available as an oral tablet and orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) that's taken once daily, typically at night. Some common side effects of this medication include sleepiness and dry mouth. Mirtazapine (Remeron) can also raise your appetite and put you at risk for weight gain.

Indications for Remeron

Pros and Cons for Remeron

Pros

  • Taken by mouth once daily
  • Available as a dissolvable tablet for those who can't swallow pills
  • Less likely to cause sexual side effects compared SSRIs
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Can take up to 2 months before you feel the the full benefits
  • More likely than other antidepressants to cause weight gain
  • Can cause sleepiness
  • Risk of withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it

Common Side Effects for Remeron

  • Sleepiness (54%)
  • Dry mouth (25%)
  • Feeling more hungry (17%)
  • Constipation (13%)
  • Weight gain (12%)
  • Weakness (8%)
  • Dizziness (7%)

Warnings for Remeron

  • Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
  • Higher risk of infection (from low white blood cell count)
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Withdrawal
  • Not for bipolar disorder
  • Glaucoma
  • Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
  • Severe allergic and skin reactions
  • Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
  • Seizures
  • Low blood sodium levels
  • Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - orally disintegrating tablets only

Summary for Restoril

Prescription only

Temazepam (Restoril) is a short-term option for people who have insomnia (trouble sleeping). It's a benzodiazepine, so taking it can lead to misuse, addiction, and sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it. For this reason, it's a controlled substance, so you'll need close follow-up with your provider to make sure this medication remains safe for you to take. Common side effects include drowsiness, headache, nervousness, and sometimes a "hangover" feeling the next morning after your dose. The medication available as a brand name (Restoril) and a generic version.

Indications for Restoril

  • Short-term treatment of insomnia (trouble sleeping)

Pros and Cons for Restoril

Pros

  • Can help you fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night
  • Only taken once a day at bedtime
  • Dose can be adjusted by your provider based on your response
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Can cause memory problems, dizziness, and confusion
  • Can worsen suicidal thoughts in some people with depression
  • Can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
  • Only recommended for short-term use (7 to 10 days)
  • Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding

Common Side Effects for Restoril

  • Drowsiness (9%)
  • Headache (9%)
  • Fatigue or exhaustion (5%)
  • Nervousness (5%)
  • Tiredness (5%)
  • Dizziness (5%)
  • Nausea (3%)

Warnings for Restoril

  • Sedation and difficulty breathing
  • Risk of misuse and addiction
  • Risk of dependence and withdrawal
  • Complex behaviors
  • Harm to babies
  • Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
  • Severe allergic reactions

Prices with our coupons for Remeron vs. Restoril

Price Card Drug Icon
Mirtazapine30 tablets / 15mg
$9.00$9.00
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Price Card Drug Icon
Temazepam30 capsules / 30mg
$12.78$20.99
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