Mirtazapine Capsule

Mirtazapine is a tetracyclic antidepressant repurposed in veterinary medicine as a powerful appetite stimulant and antiemetic, primarily for cats. It is most familiar to pet owners through Mirataz, the FDA-approved transdermal ointment applied to the inner ear flap that delivers the medication through the skin without needing to pill the cat. Generic mirtazapine tablets and pharmacy-compounded liquids are also widely used in both cats and dogs.

What mirtazapine is used for

The most common indication is the inappetent cat, particularly the cat with chronic kidney disease (CKD), inflammatory bowel disease, hepatic lipidosis risk, or post-surgical recovery, where getting calories in is critical to recovery. Mirtazapine increases appetite within hours of dosing and also has antiemetic and antinausea properties — useful in cats whose poor appetite is driven by nausea. In dogs, it is occasionally used for the same indications when first-line antiemetics like Cerenia and appetite stimulants like Entyce are insufficient.

Important considerations

Mirataz transdermal is dosed once daily — apply a 1.5-inch ribbon to the inside of the cat's ear, alternating ears, and wear gloves to avoid absorbing the drug yourself. Wash your hands afterward and keep the cat away from people for 30 minutes after application. Common side effects include hyperactivity, vocalization, agitation, increased grooming, and ear redness; most resolve as the drug clears. Serotonin syndrome can rarely occur if combined with other serotonergic drugs (tramadol, fluoxetine, trazodone) — disclose all medications to your veterinarian. Reduce the dose in patients with kidney or liver disease. Do not use in pets with serotonin syndrome or known sensitivity to mirtazapine.

Smarty Vets dispenses Mirataz transdermal, generic mirtazapine tablets, and pharmacy-compounded mirtazapine from a licensed veterinary pharmacy.

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