Sean 'Diddy' Combs has reportedly obtained Remeron, an antidepressant, while serving time at a federal prison in New Jersey, according to NBC News. The medication was reportedly among several items allegedly obtained through the prison's illicit market.

NBC News spoke with four men who had spent time in the same unit as Combs at FCI Fort Dix. The sources alleged that the musician and businessman had access to a range of goods and services, including Remeron, alcohol and other contraband. Combs' spokesperson pushed back on the portrayal of his prison life, describing the attention surrounding his day-to-day activities as excessive.

But what exactly is Remeron, and why is it prescribed?

What is Remeron?

Remeron is the brand name for mirtazapine, an antidepressant approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies it as an atypical antidepressant.

Unlike some commonly prescribed antidepressants, mirtazapine does not belong to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. It works through several signalling pathways in the brain, including blocking certain serotonin receptors and increasing the release of norepinephrine and serotonin.

Mirtazapine is generally taken once daily, preferably in the evening. The current prescribing information lists a recommended starting dose of 15 milligrams, with a maximum recommended dose of 45 milligrams per day.

Why is mirtazapine prescribed?

Remeron is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder. Depression can involve persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, fatigue, difficulty concentrating and feelings of worthlessness.

The medication can also affect sleep and appetite. According to the FDA, common side effects include drowsiness or sleepiness, weight gain and dizziness. Other potential effects include increases in cholesterol and liver enzymes, while a serious but uncommon reaction called agranulocytosis can cause a dangerous drop in certain white blood cells.

Because it can cause significant drowsiness, mirtazapine is commonly taken in the evening. However, the medication should be used according to a healthcare professional's instructions rather than for its sedating effects alone.

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Why is Remeron reportedly circulating in prison?

NBC News reported that Remeron is prescribed to some inmates for depression and anxiety, but sources also alleged that the medication is bought and sold through the prison's illicit market. The sources said Combs was among those who obtained the drug.

The report referred to the medication by the prison nickname 'rem-roms' and said some inmates sought it for its perceived mood-altering effects. That does not mean mirtazapine is a recreational drug or that it is intended to produce a euphoric high.

Mirtazapine is a prescription medication intended to treat a specific medical condition. Taking it without a prescription can expose someone to side effects and drug interactions without the medical monitoring normally involved in antidepressant treatment.

What are the risks of taking Remeron without medical supervision?

Mirtazapine can interact with other medications and is not appropriate for everyone. It should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and its prescribing information contains warnings about suicidal thoughts and behaviours associated with antidepressant treatment, particularly among children, adolescents and young adults.

Alcohol can also increase some of the medication's effects, particularly drowsiness and impaired coordination, making unsupervised use potentially more concerning.

The reports surrounding Combs' alleged access to Remeron therefore involve more than an unusual prison purchase. The medication itself is a legitimate prescription antidepressant with a specific medical purpose, not a general-purpose mood booster.

For people experiencing depression or persistent changes in mood, sleep or appetite, antidepressant treatment should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional. Mirtazapine may be appropriate for some patients, but treatment decisions depend on an individual's symptoms, medical history and other medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is Remeron?
    Remeron is the brand name for mirtazapine, an antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder in adults.
  • How does mirtazapine work?
    Mirtazapine works by blocking certain serotonin receptors and increasing the release of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain.
  • What are the common side effects of Remeron?
    Common side effects include drowsiness, weight gain, dizziness, and increases in cholesterol and liver enzymes.
  • Why is mirtazapine prescribed?
    Mirtazapine is prescribed to treat major depressive disorder, which can involve symptoms like persistent low mood, changes in sleep or appetite, and fatigue.
  • What are the risks of taking Remeron without medical supervision?
    Taking Remeron without medical supervision can lead to side effects, drug interactions, and increased risks of suicidal thoughts, especially when combined with alcohol or other medications.
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