It is not entirely clear how
Remeron works, since no other medications work exactly like it. Remeron blocks several different kinds of receptors, including serotonin, norepinephrine, histamine, alpha, and muscarinic receptors.
It is thought that the
antidepressant effects of Remeron are due to its actions on serotonin and norepinephrine. These are chemicals used to send messages in between nerves. However, if serotonin or norepinephrine levels become unbalanced, it can cause a variety of conditions, including
depression. It is thought that Remeron's actions on other types of receptors cause some of the side effects seen with the drug, such as drowsiness or low
blood pressure.
Certain receptors decrease the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine released by the nerves. Remeron blocks these inhibitory receptors, causing more serotonin and norepinephrine to be released. This may help to relieve the
symptoms of depression.
Remeron is not approved for use in
childhood depression. Two studies in children and adolecents did not show that the drug was effective for treating depression in these age groups. Talk to your healthcare provider for more information about the risks and benefits of using Remeron in children with depression.
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Remeron for something other than depression. This is called an "
off-label" use. For example, at this time, Remeron may be used to treat tremors (shakiness), especially benign familiar tremors.
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