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Compare Remeron vs. Trazodone

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

Key takeaways

Remeron (mirtazapine) and trazodone are both FDA approved for depression. But Remeron is more commonly used for depression than trazodone, which is more often used off-label for sleep. Mirtazapine is usually taken once daily at night because it can make you tired. Other side effects include weight gain, dry mouth, and dizziness. Trazodone is also usually taken once at night for sleep. It can also cause dry mouth and dizziness. Both medications can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly, so it's important to follow your provider's instructions.

  • Mirtazapine (Remeron)
    Trazodone
  • Mirtazapine (Remeron)
    Trazodone

  • Summary of Remeron vs. Trazodone

    Summary for Atypical antidepressant
    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.

    Summary for Atypical antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Trazodone is an atypical antidepressant. It's FDA-approved to treat depression in adults, but it isn't a first-choice option. In addition, trazodone is sometimes prescribed off-label for difficulty sleeping (insomnia). This medication is taken by mouth, typically once or a few times a day, depending on your condition. Common side effects of this medication include sleepiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Brand name Desyrel has been discontinued.

  • Indications of Remeron vs. Trazodone

    Indications for
    •Major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults
    Indications for
    •Major depressive disorder (MDD)

  • Pros and Cons of Remeron vs. Trazodone

    Pros and Const for Atypical antidepressant
    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
    Pros and Const for Atypical antidepressant
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Fewer sexual side effects than some other antidepressants
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Starts to work within a week for treating depression
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice medication for depression
    •Can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it

  • Common Side Effects of Remeron vs. Trazodone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (54%)
    •Dry mouth (25%)
    •Feeling more hungry (17%)
    •Constipation (13%)
    •Weight gain (12%)
    •Weakness (8%)
    •Dizziness (7%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (up to 41%)
    •Dry mouth (up to 34%)
    •Dizziness or lightheadedness (up to 28%)
    •Headache (up to 20%)
    •Blurred vision (up to 15%)
    •Nausea or vomiting (up to 13%)

  • Warnings of Remeron vs. Trazodone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Higher risk of infection (from low white blood cell count)
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Withdrawal
    •Risk factors: Stopping mirtazapine (Remeron) suddenly
    •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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Dizziness from lower blood pressure
    •Risk of bleeding
    •Prolonged and painful erection
    •Glaucoma
    •Low blood sodium levels
    •Withdrawal

  • Prices with our coupons for Remeron vs. Trazodone

    Learn more about Mirtazapine
    Learn more about Trazodone

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