Mianserin

About mianserin

Mianserin is most commonly used to treat depression, especially when the patient is experiencing difficulty sleeping and a loss of appetite.

Before taking mianserin

Before taking mianserin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from heart problems.
• If you suffer from liver problems
• If you suffer from thyroid problems
• If the medicine is for a patient less than 18 years of age.
• If you suffer from epilepsy
• If you suffer from hypotension (low blood pressure)
• If you suffer from phaeochromocytoma (a growth on the adrenal glands)
• If you suffer from glaucoma
• If you are experiencing or have ever experienced difficulty urinating (passing water)
• If you suffer from psychoses (mental health problems)
• If you suffer from porphyria (a blood disorder)
• If you suffer from diabetes
• If you are prone to dizziness or fainting, particularly when getting up from a lying or sitting position

How to take mianserin

• Take mianserin exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. You will probably have to undergo regular blood tests to ensure the dose you are taking is right for you.
• Mianserin tablets should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed with a glass of water.
• It may take several weeks before you begin to feel the benefits of this treatment.
• Do not stop taking mianserin without speaking to your doctor first. Stopping treatment suddenly can cause problems and your doctor will probably want to reduce your dose gradually.
• Take mianserin at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses. If you do forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember and take the next dose at the usual time. If it is almost time for your next dose, leave out the missed dose and continue taking it at the normal times.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Try to avoid alcohol as it will increase feelings of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, drink only in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• Your doctor may want to take blood tests especially during the first few months of treatment, this is to check that your medicine suits you.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental and emergency treatment, tell your doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking mianserin.
• Keep your regular appointment with your doctor so your progress can be checked.
• If you have diabetes, make sure you check your blood sugar levels regularly as mianserin can affect the levels of sugar in your blood.
• Your doctor may recommend a structured exercise program this increases endorphin levels that naturally improve your mood.

Can mianserin cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Other less common side effects may include difficulty urinating (passing water), fast or fluttering heartbeat, shakiness, skin rashes, being easily excitable, confusion, sexual problems, increased appetite, weight gain, enlargement of the breasts, discharge from the nipples, joint pain, speak to your doctor if any of these are affecting you.

Important: If you experience the following symptoms contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Fever (high temperature), sore throat or mouth, loss of consciousness, stiffness of the muscles, paleness of the skin, a fast heartbeat, incontinence (passing water without control from the patient), jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes).

How to store mianserin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines