Drug Class: Antipsychotic, dibenzothiazeprine derivatives

Table of Contents

Seroquel

Overview

Seroquel (Quetiapine) is used to treat certain mood and mental conditions, including bipolar disorder (also known as bipolar), schizophrenia, as well as sudden episodes of mania or depression associated with bipolar disorder. Quetiapine is known as an atypical anti-psychotic drug.

Quetiapine can help to improve concentration. It may also decrease hallucinations and promote clear and positive thinking. Those who are taking this medicine may take a more active part in everyday life. Quetiapine may prevent severe mood swings and decrease the frequency of mood swings.

This information is for educational purposes only. Not every known side effect, adverse effect, or drug interaction is in this database. If you have questions about your medicines, talk to your health care provider.

It works by helping change certain chemicals in the brain, which professionals refer to as “neurotransmitters.” It is not yet well-understood why changing these neurochemicals results in symptom relief for the conditions this drug is commonly prescribed for.

How to Take It

Take this medicine exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. It is best to avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.

Side Effects

Side effects that may occur while taking this medicine include:

  • constipation
  • weight gain
  • headache
  • dry mouth
  • upset stomach
  • gas
  • stuffy nose
  • drowsiness
  • dizziness

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

  • unexplained fever
  • severe muscle stiffness
  • swollen glands
  • uncontrolled muscle movements (e.g. tongue or face)
  • vision changes
  • shuffling walk
  • black, tarry stools
  • irregular or unusually fast heartbeat
  • sweating
  • dry, puffy skin
  • change in alertness

Warnings & Precautions

  • Before using this medicine, tell your doctor if you have had an allergy to this medicine in the past.
  • This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid operating machinery or driving, and move carefully to avoid falls until you know how this medication might affect you.
  • Alcoholic beverages can increase the effects of this medicine and should be avoided.
  • Avoid getting overheated while taking Quetiapine. Do not exercise excessively while on this medication. Drink plenty of fluids, especially when exposed to warm temperatures.
  • You may be prone to increased blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, while you are taking this medication, even if you do not have diabetes. If you have schizophrenia, you are more likely to develop diabetes. Taking Quetiapine may increase this risk. Tell your doctor immediately if you have blurred vision, extreme thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, or weakness.
  • Children may be more prone to some side effects, including increased prolactin and blood pressure. Discuss risks and benefits with your doctor.
  • For an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. For non-emergencies, contact your local or regional poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

Drug Interactions

Before taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This includes supplements and herbal products.

Dosage & Missed Dose

Seroquel may be taken with or without food. Tablets should be taken whole (not split or crushed) with a glass of water.

Dosage for an adult treating schizophrenia may range from 150 to 750 mgs/ daily.

Dosage for an adult treating bipolar disorder may range from 400 to 800 mgs/ daily.

Your doctor will start you at a low dose and then gradually increase your dose until your symptoms improve.

Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses or take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (preferably not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.

Pregnancy/Nursing

Notify your doctor if you think you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking this medicine. Do NOT take this medicine if you are breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor or pediatrician for more information.

More Information

For more information, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider, or you can visit this website, https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a698019.html, for additional information from the manufacturer of this drug.