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Seroquel (Quetiapine fumarate) Information

Seroquel, which contains the active ingredient quetiapine fumarate, is an atypical antipsychotic. It helps manage schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (including manic and depressive episodes), and supports the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults. For schizophrenia, it can ease symptoms such as hallucinations, unusual thoughts, and agitation. In bipolar disorder, it helps stabilize mood and reduce episodes of mania and depression.

The mechanism of action of quetiapine involves affecting certain chemical messengers in the brain, mainly dopamine (D2) and serotonin (5-HT2A). By adjusting how these signals function, quetiapine helps restore balance in areas that influence mood, thinking, and perception. It also interacts with histamine and adrenergic receptors, which contribute to its calming and sedating effects. This combination of actions can improve sleep, ease anxiety in some people, and reduce mood swings and psychotic symptoms.

Seroquel Side Effects

Seroquel is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects may occur. Common side effects include drowsiness or sleepiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, increased appetite, and weight gain. Some people may also experience headaches, mild drops in blood pressure when standing, or changes in sleep patterns. Children and adolescents may be more likely to experience increased appetite, fatigue, or irritability when starting treatment.

More serious side effects can occur, leading to significant monitoring protocols. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:
• Seizures
• Severe dizziness, fainting, or irregular heartbeat
• Signs of high blood sugar symptoms, including excessive thirst, frequent urination, confusion
• Signs of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), including high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, sweating, rapid heartbeat
• Signs of severe allergic reactions, including swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, rash
• Signs of Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), including uncontrolled movements of the face, lips, tongue, or limbs. A gradual reduction or switch to a different medication may be required.
• Sudden mood or behavior changes, including suicidal thoughts

Seroquel Precautions

Do not use Seroquel if you are allergic to quetiapine or any of the ingredients in the medication. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of your complete medical history. People with diabetes, high cholesterol, heart problems, low blood pressure, liver disease, seizures, Parkinson’s disease, or movement-related conditions may need extra monitoring. Because Seroquel can affect weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol, your doctor may schedule regular check-ups. It should not be used in older adults with dementia-related psychosis due to an increased risk of death.

Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, herbal products, and vitamins. Seroquel can interact with blood pressure medications, antidepressants, other antipsychotics, seizure medications, certain antibiotics, and drugs that affect liver enzymes. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and impair judgment, so it is best to avoid it. Grapefruit products can raise the level of the medication in your body and should also be avoided. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Use during the last trimester may affect the newborn, causing breathing or feeding difficulties or muscle stiffness. Small amounts of quetiapine may pass into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of the drug with your doctor.

Take Seroquel exactly as prescribed. Take the immediate-release medication two to three times daily, depending on your dosing schedule. You may take it with or without food, but try to take it the same way each time to maintain consistent absorption. Do not stop taking Seroquel suddenly unless your doctor instructs you to do so. Stopping the medication suddenly may lead to withdrawal symptoms or a return of your condition. Store the tablets at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light, and keep them out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Seroquel?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Seroquel.