switching antidepressant (mirtazapine to monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)) in adults

Last edited 03/2023 and last reviewed 03/2023

Mirtazapine to monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

  • switching to an MAOI is always a complex switch and you should follow specialist advice.
Taper, washout and switch with specialist advice
  • gradually reduce the dose of mirtazapine and stop; wait 7 to 14 days before starting the MAOI
    • specialist will advise the duration of the washout period on a case-by-case basis taking into consideration the MAOI being started

  • cross-tapering is not recommended due to the high risk of serotonin syndrome.

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