Mirtazapine is an antidepressant launched in the Netherlands. Mirtazapine is a potent antagonist of presynaptic α2 receptors as well as a moderately potent 5-HT antagonist. Studies suggested that blockade of α2-adrenoceptors, but not inhibition of noradrenaline uptake, is involved in the mechanism of the antidepressant action of mirtazapine. Mirtazapine has demonstrated efficacy in various studies in depressed patients, being equal or more potent than mianserin, amitriptyline, etc. and exhibiting less anticholinergic and gastrointestinal side effects and low cardiovascular toxicity. In addition to its antidepressant effects, studies in animals indicated that mirtazapine has anxiolytic andor hypnotic activity.