Published in:
Open Access 01-12-2023 | Antidepressant Drugs | Case report
Mirtazapine-induced neutropenic sepsis in an older person: a case report
Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2023
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Background
Mirtazapine is a frequently prescribed psychotropic drug for depression in older age. It is considered safe and has a side-effect profile uniquely favorable to an older person affected by reduced appetite, difficulty maintaining body weight, or insomnia. However, it is largely unknown that mirtazapine can cause a dangerous decline in neutrophil count.
Case presentation
We present a case of mirtazapine-induced severe neutropenia in a 91-year-old white British woman requiring drug withdrawal and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor administration.
Conclusion
This case is of significance because mirtazapine is regarded as a safe, and often preferable, antidepressant in older age. However, this case demonstrates a rare, life-threatening side effect of mirtazapine and calls for greater pharmacovigilance when prescribing it. There is no previous report of mirtazapine-induced neutropenia requiring drug withdrawal and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor administration in an older person.