Seroquel (Quetiapine) is used to treat schizophrenia in adults and children who are at least 13 years old. It is also used alone or with with divalproex or lithium to treat episodes of mania (frenzied, abnormally excited or irritated mood) or depression in patients with bipolar disorder (manic depressive disorder; a disease that causes episodes of depression, episodes of mania, and other abnormal moods). In addition, quetiapine is used with other medications to prevent episodes of depression in patients with bipolar disorder.
Side Effects:
What are the most common side effects of quetiapine?
The most common side effects of quetiapine are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.
- Feeling unusually weak or tired,
- Drowsiness, dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Increased appetite or weight gain
- Constipation
- Upset stomach or indigestion
- Low blood pressure upon standing (see below)
- Sore throat or stuffy nose
- Abnormal liver function tests (oral tablets)
- Slurred speech
- Nausea or vomiting (children)
- Fast heartbeat (children)
There may be other side effects of quetiapine that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine.
What are the serious side effects of quetiapine?
While less common, the most serious side effects of quetiapine are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
Severe Allergic Reactions. Quetiapine may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking quetiapine and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
- Breathing problems or wheezing
- Racing heart
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
- Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
Metabolism Problems. Quetiapine can cause high blood sugar levels or diabetes, high cholesterol levels, and weight gain. Very high blood sugar levels can lead to coma or death. Check your weight regularly and tell your healthcare provider if you experience weight gain. Talk with your healthcare provider about how to help limit weight gain, such as by exercising and eating a healthy and balanced diet. Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider to check your blood work and weight. Call your healthcare provider if you gain weight or develop the following symptoms of high blood sugar.
Warnings & Precautions:
Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take quetiapine. Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific quetiapine products they stock.
What should I know about quetiapine before using it?
Do not take quetiapine unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Take it as prescribed. Do not change your dose without your healthcare provider telling you to do so. Do not share quetiapine with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.
Interactions:
There are no known interactions between quetiapine and foods or drinks.
Quetiapine extended-release tablets should be taken without food or with a small meal (300 calories or less). Taking quetiapine extended-release tablets with a larger meal can increase your quetiapine blood levels.
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking quetiapine. Drinking alcohol while taking quetiapine could increase your risk of sleepiness, dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting upon standing.
Does quetiapine interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?
Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using any of the following before taking quetiapine.
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