Seroquel (quetiapine) is a member of the therapeutic group of atypical antipsychotic medicines intended for the treatment of schizophrenia, manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder and major depressive episodes in bipolar disorder. Quetiapine is not indicated for the prevention or recurrence of manic or depressive episodes.
Quetiapine impacts neurotransmitters related to serotonin and dopamine in the brain that transmit messages between nerve cells (neurons) at their synapses. This communication process is essential for mood regulation, information processing and response to surroundings.
These two neurotransmitters regulate mood and how a person perceives reality. In health disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, there may be an imbalance in these neurotransmitters. For instance, schizophrenia often involves dopamine activity, leading to symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. In this disorder, abnormal fluctuations in serotonin and dopamine levels can result in mood swings from highs to lows.
By attaching to these receptors, Seroquel can lessen the impact of serotonin and dopamine. This action doesn’t completely block these neurotransmitters. Rather, it helps regulate their function, promoting mood stability and reducing symptoms. Essentially, Seroquel aids in restoring a chemical balance in the brain and so eases psychotic symptoms and enables patients to better manage their conditions.
Dosage
It is essential to stick to the prescribed dosage and regimen. Seroquel can be taken with or without food. Do not
drink grapefruit juice during treatment since it may affect the way Seroquel works.
If an extra dose is accidentally taken or a child swallows it by mistake, it’s important to see a doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital emergency room. Make sure to take the medicine packaging with. There may be feelings of tiredness, weakness, dizziness and rapid heartbeats.
If a scheduled dose is missed, do not try to make up for it by taking an extra one. Just take the missed dose as soon as it is noticed and continue with the next one at the regular time. Abruptly discontinuing treatment may lead to symptoms like trouble sleeping, nausea, headaches, upset stomach, vomiting, dizziness and irritability. Doctors usually recommend tapering off before stopping the treatment.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
Please contact a doctor right away if any of the following symptoms are experienced after taking Seroquel;
- A mixture of fever, sudden muscle rigidity, sweating or decreased consciousness (known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome)
- Unintentional movements, particularly in the face and tongue.
- Feeling dizzy or excessively drowsy which could raise the risk of falls in individuals.
- Seizures.
- Prolonged and painful erection.
- Experiencing a fast and irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Experiencing breathing difficulties, chest pain or unexplained fatigue even at rest.
Children, adolescents and young adults up to the age of 25 being treated with Seroquel are at risk of suicidal thoughts that may surface within the first few weeks as the medication takes effect. This risk is also high in adults being treated for depression. If there are ever any feelings like self-harm, reach out to a doctor or head to a hospital immediately.
Severe skin reactions have been occasionally reported along with the use of this medication. These reactions typically show symptoms such as a rash with blisters and peeling skin around the mouth, nose, eyes and genital area. If any of these are experienced, stop taking Seroquel immediately and contact a doctor or seek emergency medical help right away.
Patients taking Seroquel may notice weight gain. It is recommended to monitor weight in consultation with a doctor.
Seroquel is prescribed to treat several mental or mood disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and sudden episodes of mania or depression associated with bipolar disorder.
- Schizophrenia is a condition in which people may imagine that they hear or feel things that do not exist, have beliefs in things that are not true or feel unduly suspicious, have feelings of anxiety, confusion,
guilt, tension or depression.
- Mania results in episodes where a person feels excited, elated, agitated, enthusiastic, aggressive or hyperactive or experiences a decline in a sense of judgment. Manic sessions may include a reduced need for sleep and the loss of touch with reality.
- Bipolar disorder is a situation in which a person experiences episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs.
The exact causes of these conditions are not known, but it is believed to be a combination of genetics, environment and altered brain structure or brain chemistry. There is no cure at the moment, and appropriate medication and psychotherapy are the only possible steps that can be taken to reduce the symptoms to manageable levels.
The treating doctor may continue treatment with Seroquel even if symptoms appear to be in remission.