Abstract:Objective To investigate the clinical effect of mirtazapine combined with transdermal fentanyl in the patients with cancer pain and depression state. Methods ninety-six patients with cancer pain and depression state were selected, then randomly divided into treatment group (transdermal fentanyl combined with mirtazapine 15mg, n = 46) and control group (transdermal fentanyl, n = 50). numeric rating scale (NRS), transdermal fentanyl dose, morphine dose for burst pain and side effects were evaluated before treatment, 1 week and 1 month after treatment. Results There was a difference in NRS score and morphine dosage for burst pain at different time point (P < 0.05). There was no difference in the NRS, transdermal fentanyl dose and morphine dosage for burst pain between the treatment group and control group (P > 0.05). There was a difference in the trend of transdermal fentanyl dose and morphine dosage for burst pain in the treatment group and control group (P < 0.05). The HAMD score of both groups decreased after treatment, which were more significant in the treatment group than that in control group one month after treatment (P < 0.05). Conclusions Mirtazapine combined with transdermal fentanyl is more effective in patients with cancer pain and depression state. Compared with using transdermal fentanyl only, combined therapy is helpful for reducing the dose of opioids, delaying the time of drug resistance and improving patient’s satisfaction and compliance.