Effect of seroquel


Seroquel Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Warnings:

There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (such as stroke, heart failure, fast/irregular heartbeat, pneumonia) when this medication is used by older adults with dementia. This medication is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication, as well as other effective and possibly safer treatments for dementia-related behavior problems, with the doctor.

Quetiapine is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, sudden episodes of mania or depression associated with bipolar disorder). Drugs used to treat depression can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, studies have shown that a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take drugs to treat depression may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. It is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of drugs used to treat depression (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition.

Tell the doctor right away if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new drug to treat depression is started or when the dose is changed.

This medication is not approved for use in children under 10 years old.

Warnings:

There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (such as stroke, heart failure, fast/irregular heartbeat, pneumonia) when this medication is used by older adults with dementia. This medication is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication, as well as other effective and possibly safer treatments for dementia-related behavior problems, with the doctor.

Quetiapine is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, sudden episodes of mania or depression associated with bipolar disorder). Drugs used to treat depression can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, studies have shown that a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take drugs to treat depression may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. It is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of drugs used to treat depression (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition.

Tell the doctor right away if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new drug to treat depression is started or when the dose is changed.

This medication is not approved for use in children under 10 years old.

... Show More

Uses

This medication is used to treat certain mental/mood conditions (such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, sudden episodes of mania or depression associated with bipolar disorder). Quetiapine is known as an anti-psychotic drug (atypical type). It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.This medication can decrease hallucinations and improve your concentration. It helps you to think more clearly and positively about yourself, feel less nervous, and take a more active part in everyday life. It may also improve your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level. Quetiapine can help prevent severe mood swings or decrease how often mood swings occur.

How to use Seroquel

Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using quetiapine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 2 or 3 times daily with or without food. For the treatment of depression associated with bipolar disorder, take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily at bedtime.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Also, you may experience symptoms such as trouble sleeping, nausea, headache, diarrhea, irritability. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased to reduce side effects. Report any new or worsening symptoms right away.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

Side Effects

See also Warning section.

Constipation, drowsiness, upset stomach, tiredness, weight gain, blurred vision, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor promptly.

Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur, especially when you first start or increase your dose of this drug. Dizziness and lightheadedness can increase the risk of falling. Get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: constipation with abdominal pain that doesn't go away, nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, restlessness/constant need to move, shakiness (tremor), mental/mood changes (such as increased anxiety, depression, thoughts of suicide), difficulty swallowing, loss of appetite, yellowing eyes/skin, interrupted breathing during sleep, trouble urinating.

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: fainting, seizure, severe dizziness.

This medication may rarely make your blood sugar rise, which can cause or worsen diabetes. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst/urination. If you already have diabetes, check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.

This drug may also cause significant weight gain and a rise in your blood cholesterol (or triglyceride) levels. These effects, along with diabetes, may increase your risk for developing heart disease. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor. (See also Notes section.)

Quetiapine may rarely cause a condition known as tardive dyskinesia. In some cases, this condition may be permanent. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any unusual/uncontrolled movements (especially of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, arms or legs).

This medication may rarely cause a very serious condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Get medical help right away if you have any of the following symptoms: fever, muscle stiffness/pain/tenderness/weakness, severe tiredness, severe confusion, sweating, fast/irregular heartbeat, dark urine, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).

Quetiapine may increase a certain natural substance (prolactin) made by your body. For females, this increase in prolactin may result in unwanted breast milk, missed/stopped periods, or difficulty becoming pregnant. For males, it may result in decreased sexual ability, inability to produce sperm, or enlarged breasts. If you develop any of these symptoms, tell your doctor right away.

Rarely, males may have a painful or prolonged erection lasting 4 or more hours. If this occurs, stop using this drug and get medical help right away, or permanent problems could occur.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking quetiapine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: eye cataracts, liver disease, low white blood cell count (including history of low white blood cell count caused by medications), seizure disorder, trouble swallowing, thyroid problems, stomach/intestinal blockage (such as severe constipation, bowel obstruction), stomach/intestines that are not moving (such as ileus), personal or family history of diabetes, personal or family history of a substance use disorder (such as overuse of or addiction to drugs/alcohol), heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol/triglyceride levels, breathing trouble during sleep (sleep apnea), difficulty urinating (for example, due to enlarged prostate).

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Quetiapine may cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that need medical attention right away.

The risk of QT prolongation may be increased if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that may cause QT prolongation. Before using quetiapine, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take and if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).

Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may increase if you use certain drugs (such as diuretics/"water pills") or if you have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Talk to your doctor about using quetiapine safely.

This medication may make you sweat less, making you more likely to get heat stroke. Avoid doing things that may cause you to overheat, such as hard work or exercise in hot weather, or using hot tubs. When the weather is hot, drink a lot of fluids and dress lightly. If you overheat, quickly look for a place to cool down and rest. Get medical help right away if you have a fever that does not go away, mental/mood changes, headache, or dizziness.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Children may be at higher risk for certain side effects while taking this medication, such as increased blood pressure or increased prolactin (see also Side Effects section). Talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, and QT prolongation (see above). Drowsiness, dizziness, and lightheadedness can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Babies born to mothers who have used this drug during the last 3 months of pregnancy may rarely develop symptoms including muscle stiffness or shakiness, drowsiness, feeding/breathing difficulties, or constant crying. If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn especially during their first month, tell the doctor right away.

Since untreated mental/mood problems (such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression) can be a serious condition, do not stop taking this medication unless directed by your doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, immediately discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.

This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Tell the doctor right away if your baby develops symptoms such as muscle stiffness or shakiness, unusual sleepiness, or difficulty feeding. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

Many drugs besides quetiapine may affect the heart rhythm (QT prolongation), including amiodarone, moxifloxacin, procainamide, quinidine, sotalol, thioridazine, among others.

Other medications can affect the removal of quetiapine from your body, which may affect how quetiapine works. Examples include azole antifungals (such as itraconazole, ketoconazole), rifamycins (such as rifampin), drugs used to treat seizures (such as phenytoin), among others.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine).

Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including urine tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does Seroquel interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness, loss of consciousness.

Do not share this medication with others.

Keep all regular medical and psychiatric appointments. Laboratory and/or medical tests (such as blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, eye exams, weight, blood counts) should be performed before you start treatment, periodically to monitor your progress, or to check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Quetiapine (Seroquel) | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness

Brand names:

  • Seroquel®
    • Oral tablet: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg
  • Seroquel XR®
    • Extended-release oral tablet: 50 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg

Generic name: quetiapine (kwe TYE a peen)

  • Quetiapine
    • Oral tablet: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg
    • Extended-release oral tablet: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg

All FDA black box warnings are at the end of this fact sheet. Please review before taking this medication.

What Is Quetiapine And What Does It Treat?

Quetiapine is a medication that works in the brain to treat schizophrenia. It is also known as a second-generation antipsychotic (SGA) or atypical antipsychotic. Quetiapine rebalances dopamine and serotonin to improve thinking, mood, and behavior.

Symptoms of schizophrenia include:

  • Hallucinations - imagined voices or images that seem real
  • Delusions - beliefs that are not true (e.g., other people are reading your thoughts)
  • Disorganized thinking or trouble organizing your thoughts and making sense
  • Little desire to be around other people
  • Trouble speaking clearly
  • Lack of motivation

Quetiapine may help some or all these symptoms.

Quetiapine is also FDA approved for the following indications:

  • Acute treatment of manic episodes of bipolar disorder
  • Acute treatment of depressive episodes of bipolar disorder
  • Maintenance (long-term) treatment of bipolar disorder (when used alone or with lithium or valproate)
  • Adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder. This means quetiapine is used in addition to an antidepressant to help treat depression.

This medication sheet will focus primarily on schizophrenia. You can find more information about bipolar disorder and depression here.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your health care provider for more information.

What Is The Most Important Information I Should Know About Quetiapine?

Schizophrenia requires long-term treatment. Do not stop taking quetiapine, even when you feel better.

With input from you, your health care provider will assess how long you will need to take the medication.

Missing doses of quetiapine may increase your risk for a relapse in your symptoms.

Do not stop taking quetiapine or change your dose without talking with your health care provider first.

For quetiapine to work properly, it should be taken every day as ordered by your health care provider.

Are There Specific Concerns About Quetiapine And Pregnancy?

If you are planning on becoming pregnant, notify your health care provider to best manage your medications. People living with schizophrenia or certain other mental illness who wish to become pregnant face important decisions. This is a complex decision since untreated schizophrenia or other mental illness has risks to the fetus, as well as the mother. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor and caregivers.

Antipsychotic use during the third trimester of pregnancy has a risk for abnormal muscle movements (extrapyramidal symptoms [EPS]) and/or withdrawal symptoms in newborns following delivery. Symptoms in the newborn may include agitation, feeding disorder, hypertonia, hypotonia, respiratory distress, somnolence, and tremor; these effects may be self-limiting or require hospitalization.

Caution is advised with breastfeeding since quetiapine does pass into breast milk.

What Should I Discuss With My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Quetiapine?

  • Symptoms of your condition that bother you the most
  • If you have thoughts of suicide or harming yourself
  • Medications you have taken in the past for your condition, whether they were effective or caused any adverse effects
  • If you ever had muscle stiffness, shaking, tardive dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, or weight gain caused by a medication
  • If you experience side effects from your medications, discuss them with your provider. Some side effects may pass with time, but others may require changes in the medication.
  • Any psychiatric or medical problems you have, such as heart rhythm problems, long QT syndrome, heart attacks, diabetes, high cholesterol, or seizures
  • If you have any of these health problems: low potassium or magnesium levels
  • If you have a family history of diabetes or heart disease
  • All other medications you are currently taking (including over the counter products, herbal and nutritional supplements) and any medication allergies you have
  • Other non-medication treatment you are receiving, such as talk therapy or substance abuse treatment. Your provider can explain how these different treatments work with the medication.
  • If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
  • If you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs

How Should I Take Quetiapine?

Quetiapine may help control your symptoms but will not cure your condition.

It may take two to three months before you feel the full effect of quetiapine.

Quetiapine is usually taken 1, 2, or 3 times per day with or without food. The extended release should be taken without food or with a light meal (≤300 calories).

Typically, patients begin at a low dose of medication and the dose is increased slowly over several weeks.
The dose usually ranges from 100 mg to 800 mg. Only your health care provider can determine the correct dose for you.

The extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole. They should not be chewed, crushed, or broken.

Use a calendar, pillbox, alarm clock, or cell phone alert to help you remember to take your medication. You may also ask a family member a friend to remind you or check in with you to be sure you are taking your medication.

What Happens If I Miss A Dose Of Quetiapine?

It is important to take your medication everyday as directed by your health care provider. Do not miss or skip a dose.

If you miss a dose of quetiapine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is closer to the time of your next dose. Discuss this with your health care provider. Do not double your next dose or take more than what is prescribed.

What Should I Avoid While Taking Quetiapine?

Avoid drinking alcohol or using illegal drugs while you are taking quetiapine. They may decrease the benefits (e.g., worsen your confusion) and increase adverse effects (e.g., sedation) of the medication.

What Happens If I Overdose With Quetiapine?

If an overdose occurs call your doctor or 911. You may need urgent medical care. You may also contact the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

A specific treatment to reverse the effects of quetiapine does not exist.

What Are Possible Side Effects Of Quetiapine?

This is not a complete list. Talk with your health care provider for more information.

Common side effects

Increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, drowsiness, headache, agitation, dizziness, fatigue, extrapyramidal symptoms, weight gain, cholesterol abnormalities, increased glucose, dry mouth, increased appetite, constipation

Rare/serious side effects

Quetiapine may increase the blood levels of a hormone called prolactin. Side effects of increased prolactin levels include females losing their period, production of breast milk and males losing their sex drive or possibly experiencing erectile problems. Long term (months or years) elevated prolactin levels can lead to osteoporosis, or increased risk of bone fractures.

Some people may develop muscle related side effects while taking quetiapine. The technical terms for these are “extrapyramidal symptoms” (EPS) and “tardive dyskinesia” (TD). Symptoms of EPS include restlessness, tremor, and stiffness. TD symptoms include slow or jerky movements that one cannot control, often starting in the mouth with tongue rolling or chewing movements.

Temperature regulation: Impaired core body temperature regulation may occur; caution with strenuous exercise, heat exposure, and dehydration.

Second generation antipsychotics (SGAs) increase the risk of weight gain, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol. This is also known as metabolic syndrome. Your health care provider may ask you for a blood sample to check your cholesterol, blood sugar, and hemoglobin A1c (a measure of blood sugar over time) while you take this medication.

  • Information on healthy eating and adding exercise to decrease your chances of developing metabolic syndrome may be found at the following sites:
    • http://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-eating/healthy-eating.htm
    • http://www.helpguide.org/home-pages/exercise-fitness.htm

SGAs have been linked with higher risk of death, strokes, and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) in elderly people with behavior problems due to dementia.

All antipsychotics have been associated with the risk of sudden cardiac death due to an arrhythmia (irregular heart beat). To minimize this risk, antipsychotic medications should be used in the smallest effective dose when the benefits outweigh the risks. Your doctor may order an EKG to monitor for irregular heartbeat.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare, life threatening adverse effect of antipsychotics which occurs in <1% of patients. Symptoms include confusion, fever, extreme muscle stiffness, and sweating. If any of these symptoms occur, contact your health care provider immediately.

All antipsychotics can cause sedation, dizziness, or orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing up from sitting or lying down). These side effects may lead to falls which could cause bone fractures or other injuries. This risk is higher for people with conditions or other medications that could worsen these effects. If falls or any of these symptoms occur, contact your health care provider.

Increased blood pressure in children and adolescents: Monitor blood pressure at the beginning of, and periodically during treatment in children and adolescents.

Are There Any Risks For Taking Quetiapine For Long Periods Of Time?

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a side effect that develops with prolonged use of antipsychotics. Medications such as quetiapine have been shown to have a lower risk of TD compared to older antipsychotics, such as Haldol (haloperidol). If you develop symptoms of TD, such as grimacing, sucking, and smacking of lips, or other movements that you cannot control, contact your health care provider immediately. All patients taking either first- or second-generation antipsychotics should have an Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) completed regularly by their health care provider to monitor for TD.

Second generation antipsychotics (SGAs) increase the risk of diabetes, weight gain, high cholesterol, and high triglycerides. (See “Serious Side Effects” section for monitoring recommendations).
Cataracts: Lens change have been observed in patients with long-term quetiapine treatment. Lens examination is recommended when starting treatment and at 6-month intervals during chronic treatment.

What Other Medications May Interact With Quetiapine?

Tell your health care provider about all medications that you take, have recently taken or plan to take including prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, herbal products, and nutritional supplements. This medication may affect the way other medications work, and other medications may affect how this medication works.

Quetiapine may block the effects of agents used to treat Parkinson’s disease such as levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet®), bromocriptine, pramipexole (Mirapex®), ropinirole (Requip®), and others.

The following medications may increase the risk of heart problems when used with quetiapine:

  • Antipsychotics, including chlorpromazine (Thorazine®), thioridizine (Mellaril®), iloperidone (Fanapt®), asenapine (Saphris®), paliperidone (Invega®), ziprasidone (Geodon®)
  • Antiarrhymics (heart rhythm medications), including procainamide, quinidine, amiodarone (Cordarone®), dronedarone (Multaq®), sotalol (Betapace®)

The following medications may increase the levels and effects of quetiapine:

  • Erythromycin (Ery-Tab®), fluconazole (Diflucan®), fluvoxamine (Luvox®), ketoconazole, ritonavir, and nefazodone.

The following medications may decrease the levels and effects of quetiapine:

  • Carbamazepine (Tegretol®), phenytoin (Dilantin®), phenobarbital, and rifampin (Rifadin®).

How Long Does It Take For Quetiapine To Work?

It is especially important to tell your doctor how you feel things are going during the first few weeks after you start taking quetiapine. It will probably take several weeks to see big enough changes in your symptoms to decide if quetiapine is the right medication for you.

Antipsychotic treatment is generally needed lifelong for persons with schizophrenia. Your doctor can best discuss the duration of treatment you need based on your symptoms and illness.

  • Hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and delusions may improve in the first 1-2 weeks
  • Sometimes these symptoms do not completely go away
  • Motivation and desire to be around other people can take at least 1-2 weeks to improve
  • Symptoms continue to get better the longer you take quetiapine
  • It may take 2-3 months before you get the full benefit of quetiapine

Summary of FDA Black Box Warnings

Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia related psychosis

  • Both first generation (typical) and second generation (atypical) antipsychotics are associated with an increased risk of mortality in elderly patients when used for dementia related psychosis.
  • Although there were multiple causes of death in studies, most deaths appeared to be due to cardiovascular causes (e.g., sudden cardiac death) or infection (e.g., pneumonia).
  • Antipsychotics are not indicated for the treatment of dementia related psychosis.

Suicidal thoughts or actions in children and adults

  • Depression and certain other psychiatric disorders are themselves associated with increases in the risk of suicide.
  • Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), both adult and pediatric, may experience worsening of their depression and/or the emergence of suicidal ideation and behavior (suicidality) or unusual changes in behavior, whether or not they are taking medications. This risk may persist until significant remission occurs.
  • Patients, their families, and caregivers should be alert to the emergence of anxiety, restlessness, irritability, aggressiveness and insomnia. If these symptoms emerge, they should be reported to the patient’s prescriber or health care professional.
  • All patients being treated with this medication for depression should watch for and notify their health care provider for worsening symptoms, suicidality and unusual changes in behavior, especially during the first few months of treatment.

 

Provided by

(November 2022)

©2022 The College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists (CPNP) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). CPNP and NAMI make this document available under the Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivatives 4.0 International License. Last Updated: January 2016.

This information is being provided as a community outreach effort of the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists. This information is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. This information contains a summary of important points and is not an exhaustive review of information about the medication. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding medications or medical conditions. Never delay seeking professional medical advice or disregard medical professional advice as a result of any information provided herein. The College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists disclaims any and all liability alleged as a result of the information provided herein.

Seroquel. Pills Reference book of medicines. Tomsk

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Packaging

Tablets

Pharmacological action

Has a higher affinity for serotonin 5HT2 receptors compared to dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in the brain, as well as a high affinity for histamine and alpha1-adrenergic receptors.

Indications for use

Acute and chronic psychoses, including schizophrenia.

Release form

tablets included; blister 10 carton pack 1. film-coated tablets 100 mg; blister 10 carton pack 6. film-coated tablets 200 mg; blister 10 carton pack 6. film-coated tablets 25 mg; blister 10 carton pack 6. film-coated tablets 25 mg; blister 10 cardboard pack 3. film-coated tablets 100 mg; blister 10 cardboard pack 3. film-coated tablets 100 mg; blister 10 cardboard pack 9. film-coated tablets 200 mg; blister 10 cardboard pack 3. film-coated tablets 200 mg; blister 10 carton pack 9.

Pharmacokinetics

It is 83% bound to plasma proteins. T1 / 2 - about 7 hours. Excreted in the urine (73%) and faeces (21%) as inactive metabolites. Biotransformed with the participation of cytochrome P450.

Use during pregnancy

Possible if the expected effect of therapy outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. At the time of treatment should stop breastfeeding.

Contraindications for use

Hypersensitivity.

Side effects

From the side of the cardiovascular system and blood (blood formation, hemostasis): orthostatic hypotension, hypertension, tachycardia, leukopenia. From the nervous system and sensory organs: drowsiness, dizziness, anxiety, rarely - neuroleptic malignant syndrome. From the side of metabolism: an increase in the level of cholesterol, serum triglycerides, ALT and AST, a change in the level of liver enzymes. From the digestive tract: dry mouth, diarrhea or constipation, dyspepsia. On the part of the skin: rash, dry skin. Other: pain syndrome (pain in the abdomen, headache, in the lower back, muscles, chest, ear), asthenia, rhinitis, urinary tract infections, fever, weight gain.

Method of administration and dosage

Inside, regardless of food intake, 2 times a day. Adults. The daily dose during the first 4 days of therapy is: on the first day - 50 mg, on the second day - 100 mg, on the third day - 200 mg, on the 4th day - 300 mg. Starting on day 4, the dose should be titrated to the usually effective dosage, ranging from 300 to 450 mg/day. Depending on the clinical effect and individual patient tolerance, the dose may vary from 150 to 750 mg / day. Elderly. Like other antipsychotics, Seroquel should be used with caution in the elderly, especially during the initial period of therapy. In elderly patients, the initial dose of Seroquel should be 25 mg per day. The dose should be increased daily by 25–50 mg until an effective dose is reached, which is likely to be less than in younger patients. The safety and efficacy of Seroquel in children and adolescents have not been studied. In patients with impaired liver and kidney function, therapy with Seroquel should begin with a dose of 25 mg / day. The dose should be increased daily by 25–50 mg until an effective dose is reached.

Overdose

Symptoms: drowsiness, sedation, tachycardia, hypotension. Treatment: symptomatic; restoration and control of the patency of the upper respiratory tract, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation, monitoring and maintaining the activity of the cardiovascular system.

Interaction with other drugs

The effect is weakened by inducers of microsomal liver enzymes (phenytoin, carbamazepine, barbiturates, rifampicin) and thioridazine (increases Cl).

Precautions

Caution should be exercised when combined with other drugs with central activity, with alcohol, as well as when combined with potential inhibitors of biotransformation - ketoconazole, erythromycin, etc. people whose profession is associated with increased concentration of attention.

Storage conditions

At temperatures not exceeding 30 °C.

Expiration date

36 months

Seroquel Prolong, 300 mg, extended-release film-coated tablets, 60 pcs.

Composition

Description

Pharmacological action

Pharmacokinetics

Indications for use

Method of application and dose

Use and breastfeeding

Contraindications

Side effect

overdose of

interaction0033

Precautions

Dispensing conditions

Manufacturer

Composition

Seroquel is an antipsychometric drug that can interact with a variety of receptors. This drug is effective in the treatment of various manifestations of schizophrenia.

If you take this drug orally, then its effectiveness increases several times. At the same time, food intake practically does not affect the bioavailability of its components. Most of the element such as quetiapine, which is part of this drug, begins to interact with plasma proteins. This medicine begins to be excreted from the body seven to eight hours after it was taken.

It is worth considering that in those patients who have liver failure, the main components of this drug are concentrated in the liver. This can lead to an increase in the concentration of quetiapine. That is why the doctor must adjust the previously established dosage.

Description

Tablet 25 mg: round, 6 mm in diameter, peach-colored, biconvex, coated.

Tablet 100 mg: round, 8.5 mm in diameter, yellow, biconvex, coated.

Tablet 200 mg: round, 11 mm in diameter, white, biconvex, coated.

Pharmacological action

It has a higher affinity for serotonin 5HT2 receptors compared to dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in the brain, as well as a high affinity for histamine and alpha1-adrenergic receptors.

Pharmacokinetics

It binds to plasma proteins by 83%. T1 / 2 - about 7 hours. Excreted in the urine (73%) and faeces (21%) as inactive metabolites. Biotransformed with the participation of cytochrome P450.

Seroquel Prolong: Indications

Seroquel is prescribed for those patients who have acute or chronic mental illness, including schizophrenia. It is worth considering that this drug is used during the preventive treatment of relapses in those patients who are registered.

This drug is used quite often to treat bipolar disorder. It is prescribed in the event that manic episodes, both moderate and severe, are established.

This drug is used when depression is more severe

This drug is used to prevent relapses. It is used after effective therapy for depression caused by bipolar disorder.

Dosage and administration

In the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, seroquel should be taken some time before meals. In this case, the daily dosage should be 300 mg on the first day, on the second - the dose is increased to 600 mg. In this case, the maximum dosage should not exceed 800 mg. If necessary, the doctor can adjust the dosage.

To treat depression, the patient should take this drug at bedtime. In this case, the course of therapy lasts for four days. On the first day, the amount of the drug should be 50 mg. In the following days, the dose is doubled. The maximum dosage should not exceed 600 mg. In this case, individual intolerance to certain components, as well as the clinical picture, are taken into account.

During prophylactic treatment, this drug is taken as in conventional therapy. In this case, the dosage should not exceed 800 mg. Maintenance therapy is accompanied by taking a minimum amount of this drug.

Patients with renal insufficiency can take this drug, and no prior dose adjustment is necessary.

Patients with liver failure in addition to schizophrenia should start this drug at 50 mg. In this case, the amount of the drug should increase every day by 50 mg. All this must be done under the strict supervision of a physician.

Pregnancy and lactation

Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation.

Seroquel Prolong: Contraindications

Seroquel should not be used in patients who have an individual intolerance to certain components of this drug.

This medicinal product should be used as carefully as possible if the patient has arterial hypotension. In addition, this medicine should be used carefully if the patient suffers from epileptic seizures.

The use of this medicinal product during pregnancy is not recommended by experts. Exceptions can only be those cases where the risk for the mother is much higher than for the baby. The level of quetiapine in the milk of a nursing mother has not yet been established. That is why during treatment with this drug you should not breastfeed.

This medicine should not be used if the patient has a lactose deficiency or an individual intolerance to galactose.

Seroquel should not be used in patients under eighteen years of age, despite the fact that scientists have conducted studies that have shown that the drug is completely safe for adolescents 10 years of age and older.

Experts do not recommend the use of this drug in elderly patients. Do not use this drug if the patient has liver failure.

Seroquel Prolong: Side effects

Studies have shown that Seroquel is associated with some side effects. So, almost twenty percent of patients feel constant drowsiness during treatment. For some, taking this drug is accompanied by dizziness, as well as dryness in the mouth.

In some cases, the use of this drug may cause constipation and changes in liver enzymes. In addition, the patient may experience orthostatic hypotension while taking this medication.

Drowsiness may occur during the first ten days. Often it goes away if you take this drug for a longer time. In this case, the patient may develop rhinitis or asthenia.

As with other psychiatric drugs, therapy with this drug can lead to rapid weight gain in the patient. This usually happens within the first week.

Much less frequently, the drug may cause seizures or neuroleptic syndrome. In addition, some patients may have a slight increase in the number of leukocytes, but within a couple of weeks, these indicators are normalized.

If any side effects occur, seek medical advice immediately. It may be necessary to adjust the dosage or supplement the course of treatment with any other drugs.

Overdose

Symptoms: drowsiness, sedation, tachycardia, hypotension.

Treatment: symptomatic; restoration and control of the patency of the upper respiratory tract, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation, monitoring and maintaining the activity of the cardiovascular system.

Interaction

The effect is weakened by inducers of microsomal liver enzymes (phenytoin, carbamazepine, barbiturates, rifampicin) and thioridazine (increases Cl).

Precautions

Caution should be exercised when combined with other drugs with central activity, with alcohol, as well as when combined with potential inhibitors of biotransformation - ketoconazole, erythromycin, etc.

Primary packaging

Blister

Number in packaging

60

Manufacturer

ASTRAZENECA

USA

USA

2 years

Currently A description of the active substances of the drug is presented. The description of the drug is based on the officially approved instructions for use from the manufacturer.


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