Can I take Mirtazapine and Rosuvastatin together?

Why this happens

Mirtazapine is an antidepressant that affects brain chemicals, while rosuvastatin is a statin used to lower cholesterol. They do not compete for the same enzymes in the liver (rosuvastatin is not significantly metabolised by the CYP450 enzymes that mirtazapine uses), meaning they are unlikely to affect each other's levels in the blood.

You can safely take these two medications together as prescribed by your doctor. As with any medication, if you notice unusual muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (common side effects of statins) or extreme drowsiness, please consult your healthcare professional.

Depression and mental health disorders

Mirtazapine can increase thoughts of self-harm or suicide, particularly when you first start taking it or when your dose is changed. You must tell someone you trust that you are taking this medicine and seek medical help immediately if your mood worsens or you have distressing thoughts.

Low white blood cell count (Agranulocytosis)

Mirtazapine can rarely cause a serious drop in white blood cells. You must contact a doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection, such as a high fever, severe sore throat, or mouth ulcers.

Pregnancy

You must not take rosuvastatin if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as it may harm the unborn baby. Use effective contraception while taking this medicine.

Muscle disorders (Myopathy/Rhabdomyolysis) - rosuvastatin

You must report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness to your doctor immediately. In rare cases, this can lead to serious muscle breakdown and kidney damage.

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking mirtazapine. Both alcohol and mirtazapine cause drowsiness and can affect your coordination; combining them significantly increases these effects, making you feel very sleepy and increasing the risk of accidents.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking rosuvastatin. Drinking large amounts of alcohol regularly can increase your risk of developing serious liver problems and may increase the risk of muscle side effects.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Caffeine can counteract the sedative effects of mirtazapine, potentially making the medicine less effective for sleep or increasing feelings of anxiety.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.