What is Seroquel used for?
Seroquel, also known as quetiapine, is a newer class of antipsychotic medication (also known as an atypical antipsychotic drug). It also has fewer side effects compared to conventional medicines. It is prescribed for individuals suffering from mood or mental problems such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorders.
This medication works by rebalancing and regulating certain chemical neurotransmitters in the brain (serotonin and dopamine). This drug blocks the reabsorption of these substances, which helps improve your thinking process, mood, and behavior.
Quetiapine can be used as an adjuvant therapy to antidepressant medications for major depressive disorder.
Seroquel Dosage
The dosage of this drug varies among individuals depending on the patient’s health condition, age, and response to treatment. This drug comes in tablet formulation in five strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, and 300 mg.
- Adults with schizophrenia should start with 25 mg twice daily, with a maximum daily dose of 750 mg, whereas adolescents (13 to 17 years old) should begin with 25 mg two times a day, with a maximum daily intake of 800 mg. The dosage can be increased depending on your tolerance or as prescribed by your doctor.
- The suggested starting dose for adults with Bipolar Mania is 100 mg divided into two doses, with a maximum dosage of 800 mg per day. For adolescents (10 to 17 years old) with Bipolar Mania, the suggested dose is 25 mg two times a day, not exceeding 600 mg daily. The initial dosage in adults with Bipolar Depression is 50 mg once a day at bedtime, with a maximum intake of 300 mg per day.
- The maintenance dose for schizophrenia is 800 mg daily, while the dosage for Bipolar I Disorder is 400 or 800 mg divided into two doses. This can be used as an adjuvant therapy to Lithium or Divalproex for bipolar disorder.
Keep in mind that your primary care provider may modify your dosage.
Directions
To begin, read all drug directions and information thoroughly. Use the medication exactly as instructed. If you have any questions or are confused about anything, seek medical advice from healthcare professionals.
Take this medication orally as directed. It is usually taken with or without regard to food.
To avoid missing a dose, remember to take this medication regularly. Making a note on your calendar may assist you in remembering to take your medicine. If you forget to take this oral tablet, take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is already due, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
It is not advisable to alter your dosage without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking more than the prescribed dose may raise your chance of unpleasant side effects. Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens over time.
Seroquel Side effects
Common side effects of this medication that may pass with time when your body has already adjusted to this drug:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Stomach upset
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Weight gain
- Dry mouth
- Postural hypotension
- Sore throat
- Weakness
- Increased appetite
If you develop any of the following adverse reactions, contact your doctor and seek medical advice right away:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Suicidal thoughts
- Extremely high blood glucose levels (increased thirst/hunger)
- Uncontrolled movements (face, tongue)
- Seizures
- Difficulty swallowing and speaking
- Flu-like symptoms
- High fever
- Muscle stiffness
- Blurring of vision
- Numbness on one side
- Confusion
Note that this is not a complete list of the medication’s potential health risks. Other unwanted effects are possible to occur.
Precautions when taking Seroquel
If you have diabetes, cataracts, seizure disorders, high or low blood pressure, heart, liver, or kidney problems, make sure to inform your doctor if this drug is safe for you, as this drug can worsen your current medical condition.
Do not take this medication if you are allergic to quetiapine or other ingredients. Keep an eye out for any allergic reactions, such as rashes, hives, swelling of the face and lips, throat tightness, or difficulty breathing when taking this drug. You should seek medical attention as soon as these signs and symptoms occur.
Ensure to monitor your blood tests regularly, as this medication can increase your blood sugar and triglycerides levels.
This drug may make you dizzy or sleepy. To avoid accidents, avoid tasks that need alertness, such as driving and operating machinery.
Do not use this drug for older patients with dementia-related psychosis, as this can increase the risk of causing a heart attack or death.
Do not abruptly discontinue the use of this drug even if you feel better without first consulting your doctor. Withdrawal symptoms may occur, such as trouble sleeping, nausea, and vomiting.
Long-term use of this medication is linked to tardive dyskinesia, a disorder in which you are constantly restless. If not addressed right away, this can have long-term implications. Call your doctor immediately if you experience the following symptoms: lips smacking, teeth grinding, and unusual eye blinking.
Keep this item out of children’s reach and store it accordingly.
How much does Seroquel cost?
The price of Seroquel is reasonable and affordable. You can purchase this medication with ease and confidence on this online platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seroquel safe to use during pregnancy?
Taking Seroquel during pregnancy may cause problems in your unborn child. Seroquel withdrawal symptoms are breathing difficulties, feeding problems, fussiness, tremors, and limp or stiff muscles. Talk to your doctor for clarification.
Can Seroquel be used to treat anxiety?
Seroquel for anxiety is also given as adjunct therapy to help relieve its symptoms. There are still ongoing studies for this drug as a treatment of choice for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). However, it is up to your doctor to determine whether or not this drug is appropriate for your condition.
Can Seroquel be used to relieve insomnia?
Seroquel for sleep is not recommended as this drug can cause dependence.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Seroquel?
No, Seroquel and alcohol should not be combined, as alcohol can worsen the side effects of this medication.
