Description
Generic Name: quetiapine
Drug Class: atypical antipsychotic
Seroquel Indications
Seroquel is an oral prescription drug used to treat schizophrenia. It is also used to manage depressive episodes of bipolar disorder and manic episodes of bipolar 1 disorder. It decreases hallucinations and mood swings while improving the ability to concentrate.
Seroquel Dosage Forms
This is available in Seroquel 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, and 300 mg tablets. This is also available in Seroquel XR extended-release tablets.
Seroquel Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism of this antipsychotic is still unknown. However, it is thought to work by combining the partial agonist activity at D2 and 5-HT1A receptors and the antagonist activity at the 5-HT2A receptors. It restores the balance of some specific neurotransmitters in the brain.
How to Take Seroquel
Before you start with this medication, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. You must not take any medication unless you have understood the uses and directions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for further medical advice or additional details.
Seroquel tablet is usually prescribed two to three times a day and is only meant to be taken by mouth. If being taken for bipolar, this is usually taken once a day, at bedtime, and can be taken with or without a meal. Consume fluids after swallowing the tablet completely. Cutting, crushing, or dissolving this drug is not recommended.
Follow a schedule to avoid missing a dose. Do not increase or decrease your Seroquel dosage. You should also not take this oral drug more frequently than advised. Your physician may start with a low dose and gradually increase your dose to minimize adverse effects. Additionally, you should not discontinue this drug abruptly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Seroquel Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Dizziness
-Lightheadedness
-Upset stomach
-Constipation
-Drowsiness
-Tiredness
-Dry mouth
-Weight gain
-Blurred vision
Severe Side Effects:
-Restlessness
-Tremors
-Difficulty swallowing
-Constipation with persistent stomach pain
-Loss of appetite
-Persistent nausea and vomiting
-Trouble urinating
-Dyspnea
-Severe dizziness
-Fainting
-Seizure
-Mental or mood changes
-High blood sugar
-High blood cholesterol levels
-Tardive dyskinesia
-Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
-High prolactin levels
-Priapism or prolonged erection
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Seroquel.
Discontinue medication if you experience severe or persistent side effects and speak with your doctor.
Warnings and Precautions when using Seroquel
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to quetiapine or any inactive ingredients it may contain. Always watch out for signs of serious allergic reactions, such as trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives, or itchy skin. It is important to discontinue the use of this medication if this occurs and to seek emergency medical attention right away.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of gastrointestinal problems, low white blood cell count, thyroid problems, seizure disorder, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, high cholesterol levels, liver disease, sleep apnea, difficulty urinating, and substance abuse. It is also important to discuss all prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking since there may be drug interactions.
This oral drug can cause QT prolongation, which could be considered a medical emergency. Symptoms are severe dizziness and fainting. You may prevent this by staying hydrated and avoiding water pills. You should also be monitored for low levels of potassium and magnesium in the blood, as they may lead to prolonged QT.
Dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, and blurred vision are among the side effects of this antipsychotic. You should practice safety caution when doing tasks that require alertness and clear vision, especially driving. Further, quetiapine and alcohol can interact and cause CNS depression. It can cause sedation and psychomotor impairments. Avoid drinking alcohol while on this treatment.
Quetiapine can decrease sweating which could increase the risk of heatstroke. If the weather is humid/hot, you should avoid overheating by staying in a cool place, wearing light clothes, and staying hydrated.
Patients taking this oral drug for major depressive disorder should be monitored for suicidal ideations. As soon as you notice sudden changes in behavior, altered sleeping patterns, social withdrawal, giving away important items, or lack of interest in pleasurable activities, call your local suicide hotline.
Women who are pregnant have to avoid this oral drug since it is known to harm their unborn children. For breastfeeding moms, this drug is known to pass into breast milk. The risks should be discussed with the physician prior to taking this medication.
How much does Seroquel cost in Canada?
PharmaPassport.com offers cheap and affordable prices on this medication. Check the top of this page for your options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Seroquel used for?
Seroquel (quetiapine) is being used to treat schizophrenia. It is also used for managing manic and depressive episodes of bipolar disorder. This is classified as an atypical antipsychotic.
Does Seroquel work for anxiety?
Physicians prescribe Seroquel for anxiety, although it is not among its indications. However, according to clinical studies, this is effective for generalized anxiety disorder.
Can I use Seroquel for sleep problems?
This oral drug is being used off-label to treat insomnia or difficulty falling asleep. This is usually prescribed because it has fewer addictive qualities.
How long does it take for Seroquel to kick in?
It may take around 1.5 hours or 90 minutes before you start to feel the improvements in your symptoms. You may have to take this drug continuously to achieve its full effects.
What are the Seroquel withdrawal symptoms?
Among the withdrawal symptoms of this medication are dizziness, headache, flu-like symptoms, stomach issues, anxiety, sensory disruptions, and dysphoria. Doses should be tapered to avoid these symptoms.
Is Seroquel sold over the counter?
Seroquel is a prescription drug. To dispense this medication, a valid prescription is required.