Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking mirtazapine

Mirtazapine and pregnancy

There's no good evidence that taking mirtazapine in early pregnancy will affect your baby's development.

When you take mirtazapine in the weeks before delivery it might sometimes cause short-term withdrawal symptoms and, very rarely, breathing problems in the baby. Your baby will be checked after birth and given extra care if needed.

Taking mirtazapine in the last month of pregnancy may slightly increase your risk of bleeding after delivery. However, as this side effect is rare, most women choose to continue mirtazapine while pregnant.

It is important that mental health problems are well treated since these can affect both you and your baby's wellbeing. Depression and anxiety can sometimes get worse during pregnancy, and after the baby's born.

Speak to your doctor if you become pregnant. They will help you weigh up the risks and benefits so you can decide on the best treatment for you and your baby.

Mirtazapine and breastfeeding

If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, you can take mirtazapine while breastfeeding.

Mirtazapine passes into breast milk in small amounts and has often been used during breastfeeding without any problems.

Although other medicines might be preferred while you are breastfeeding, it is important you take the medicine that works for you. If you are breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed, talk to your doctor or pharmacist to help you decide what is best for you.

It's important to continue taking mirtazapine to keep you well. Breastfeeding will also benefit both you and your baby.

If you notice that your baby is not feeding as well as usual, seems unusually sleepy, or irritable and restless, or if you have any other concerns about your baby, talk to your health visitor, midwife, pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible.

Mirtazapine and fertility

There's no clear evidence to suggest that mirtazapine affects fertility in either men or women.

Speak to your doctor if you're planning to get pregnant while taking mirtazapine.

For more information about how mirtazapine can affect you and your baby during pregnancy, visit the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS) website.