Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that often manifests in disabling symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. Patients may also experience difficulty in understanding information and making decisions. Symptoms usually start in late teens to young adulthood.

Bipolar Disorder

People with bipolar disorder (also known as manic-depressive illness) experience unusual shifts in mood, energy, sleep patterns, and activity levels. Moods range from extremely elevated to depressive. There are four basic types of bipolar disorder: bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, cyclothymia, and unspecified bipolar disorder.

Depression

Depression is a mood disorder that manifests in feelings of tiredness, loss of interest, sleep disturbances, and anxiety. People usually have trouble carrying out everyday activities and may feel like life is not worth living. Depression may require long-term treatment involving medications and psychotherapy.

Seroquel Active Ingredient

Generic Seroquel Alternative: Quetiapine Fumarate

Seroquel contains the active ingredient quetiapine, which helps restore the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Quetiapine belongs to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics, which are newer medications with less of the negative side effects associated with first-generation antipsychotics.

General Drug Information

What is Seroquel and What Is It Used For?

Seroquel is prescribed to patients who suffer from schizophrenia and major depressive disorder. It is also used to treat sudden episodes of mania or depression associated with bipolar disorder.

Seroquel can improve concentration and decrease hallucinations. It helps to control mood swings, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep, energy levels, and appetite. Patients are able to think more clearly and take a more active role in everyday life.

Warnings

Seroquel is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems.

Older adults with dementia who take this drug have a slightly higher risk of serious side effects, such as stroke, heart failure, irregular heartbeat, and pneumonia.

People under 25 need to discuss the risks and benefits of this drug with their doctor. Seroquel has a number of important benefits. However, studies have shown that people under 25 who take antidepressants may experience worsening depression or suicidal thoughts.

Patients should inform their doctor in the event of worsening depression or any unusual changes in their thoughts or behavior. This includes suicidal thoughts, worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, and irritability.

Patients should also report feelings of hostility or anger, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, and very rapid speech. The risk of side effects is higher when a new drug is started or when the dose of an existing one is increased.

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

The information on this page is not a replacement for a consultation with a physician, qualified to treat this condition and prescribe medication. The information is supplied by a third party, independent from this website and only serves to raise awareness about this condition and point out basic information regarding treatment.

The website cannot take responsibility for the reliability or medical efficacy of the information provided. As mentioned above, patients should seek medical attention to ensure effective and safe treatment.

Not all products are shipped by our contracted Canadian pharmacy. The source country, shipping country, or drug manufacturer may vary depending on availability.

The website also sources from dispensaries around the world. Products can be sourced from a number of countries. Patients should note that different items within an order can be shipped from different jurisdictions, depending on availability and cost at the time an order was placed.

Usage and Application

Seroquel should be taken exactly as prescribed. The dosage depends on the patient’s condition, response to treatment, and other medications they may be taking. Patients should inform their doctor of all other prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements they are taking.

Patients with bipolar disorder are usually prescribed the medication once a day, often at bedtime.

Others may be directed to take Seroquel two or three times a day.

All patients must follow the doctor’s instructions carefully. To reduce the risk of side effects, some patients are asked to start the medication at a lower dose, increasing it gradually. Patients should notify their doctor in the event their condition worsens.

It is necessary to use Seroquel regularly in order to experience its full benefit. To prevent forgetting, patients are advised to take this medication at the same time each day. Do not increase the dose. Do not use the medication more often or for longer than prescribed. Doing so will not improve your condition and increases the risk of negative side effects.

Patients should continue taking Seroquel even if they feel well. Stopping this medication must happen only under the guidance of the treating physician.

Some doctors may choose to decrease the medication gradually, as certain conditions may worsen when the medication is suddenly stopped. Patients may also experience symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, headache, irritability, and trouble sleeping.

Considerations Before Taking Seroquel

Before starting treatment patients need to discuss the possibility of allergic reactions to Seroquel.

It is vital to discuss the patient’s medical history, especially heart disease, liver disease, low white blood cell count, and seizure disorders. This includes any thyroid problems, issues with high blood pressure, and high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides.

Patients should also report conditions like sleep apnea, difficulty swallowing, urination issues, and stomach problems like severe constipation, intestinal blockage, or paralytic ileus. Eye cataracts should also be reported, as well as a family or personal history of diabetes or substance abuse.

Seroquel may cause dizziness or drowsiness. While taking this medication, patients should not drive, use machinery, or perform other tasks requiring alertness until the effects of this medication are known. Avoid alcoholic beverages and discuss marijuana use with your doctor.

This medication may cause QT prolongation, a condition which affects heart rhythm. In rare cases, QT prolongation can cause serious and possibly fatal irregular heartbeat, as well symptoms like severe dizziness and fainting. Patients should see a doctor immediately in the event of such symptoms.

The risk of developing QT prolongation is higher in patients with certain medical conditions such as heart failure, slow heartbeat, and QT prolongation detected by an electrocardiogram. Patients with a family history of QT prolongation or sudden cardiac death are also more at risk.

Taking certain medications in tandem with Seroquel increases the risk of QT prolongation. Low levels of potassium and/or magnesium in the blood are additional risk factors. Using diuretic drugs can lower the level of these minerals in the body. Conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, and vomiting also reduce mineral levels.

Some patients taking Seroquel may find that they sweat less. This increases the likelihood of heat stroke. Patients should avoid activities that may cause the body to overheat – for example, using hot tubs or exercising in hot weather. On hot days, patients should drink plenty of fluids and avoid exercise or any other activities that may cause them to overheat.

In the event of overheating, patients should take immediate steps to cool down and rest. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience persistent symptoms of serious overheating, including mood changes, headache, or dizziness.

Patients preparing for surgery or certain dental procedures should inform their doctor or dentist about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products they are taking.

Children may be more at risk for certain negative side effects like high blood pressure and increased levels of the hormone prolactin.

Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and lightheadedness, which increase the risk of falling. Older adults are also more at risk of developing QT prolongation.

Seroquel should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant – or planning to become pregnant – should discuss the safe use of this drug with their doctors.

Untreated problems such as schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar disorder can cause serious problems, and patients should never stop their medication unless directed by their doctor.

In rare cases, babies born to mothers who have used Seroquel in the last trimester of pregnancy may develop symptoms such as muscle stiffness, shakiness, drowsiness, constant crying, feeding problems, and/or breathing difficulties. Parents should immediately contact their physician if they notice such symptoms in their newborn.

Seroquel passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on nursing infants. Mothers should consult their doctor before they begin breastfeeding.

Delayed and Omitted Doses

Patients who miss a dose of Seroquel should take it as soon as they remember. If this happens near the time for the next dose, patients should skip the missed dose and proceed as usual. Patients should not double up on the dose in order to catch up.

Other Medications and Seroquel

Drug interactions may change the way Seroquel works and may increase the risk of side effects. Before starting treatment, patients need to discuss all medications and supplements they are taking with their doctor. Patients should not change their dose or stop taking this medication unless their physician advises them to do so.

A number of drugs besides Seroquel may affect heart rhythm, causing QT prolongation. Examples include antiarrhythmic drugs like amiodarone, quinidine, and procainamide, as well as sotalol – both an antiarrhythmic and beta-blocker. The antibiotic Vigamox and the antipsychotic drug thioridazine also have a similar effect.

Seroquel interacts negatively with antifungal medications like itraconazole and ketoconazole. This is also the case with certain antibiotics – like Rifadin – and drugs used to treat seizures (such as Dilantin).

Patients should inform their doctor if they use other products which cause drowsiness. Examples include opioid pain and cough relievers like codeine or hydrocodone. Alcohol or marijuana have the same effect, as do drugs for sleep and anxiety like alprazolam, lorazepam, and zolpidem.

Muscle relaxants like carisoprodol and cyclobenzaprine – as well as antihistamines like cetirizine, and diphenhydramine – may also cause drowsiness. Patients should check the labels of all allergy and cough-and-cold products for ingredients that may cause drowsiness, and discuss the safe use of such products with their pharmacist.

Seroquel may interfere with certain laboratory results. Patients should alert laboratory personnel about the possibility of faulty results.

Adverse Reactions

Most patients are able to use Seroquel safely without serious side effects.

Some patients may experience drowsiness, dizziness, and lightheadedness. This increases the risk of falling, so patients should get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

Dry mouth, upset stomach, constipation, tiredness, blurred vision, and weight gain are additional common side effects. These side effects could be especially pronounced at the start of treatment or when the dose is increased.

Serious Side Effects

It is important to inform the treating physician of serious side effects like difficulty swallowing or urinating, constipation with persistent stomach pain, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Sleep apnea, tremors, and yellowing skin or eyes should be reported immediately.

Patients should monitor for mental changes, such as confusion, restlessness, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Pay attention to any signs of infection such as fever and persistent sore throat. Notify the treating physician immediately in the event of such symptoms.

Patients should also seek medical help if they experience any fainting, seizures, or severe dizziness.

Diabetes

In rare cases, Seroquel may increase blood sugar levels, a concern for diabetic patients. Diabetic patients should check blood sugar regularly and may need to adjust their medication, exercise program, and/or diet. All patients should monitor for symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst and urination.

Some patients may experience significant weight gain and a rise in blood cholesterol and/or triglycerides. Coupled with pre-existing diabetes, this may increase the risk of heart disease.

Other Risks

In some patients, there is a rare possibility of developing tardive dyskinesia, which causes involuntary, repetitive body movements. Patients should notify the treating physician in the event they notice any unusual movements, especially in the face, mouth, tongue, arms, or legs.

In rare cases, Seroquel may cause a very serious condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome. This condition manifests in symptoms such as fever, severe tiredness and confusion, sweating, and irregular heartbeat. Additional symptoms include muscle stiffness or pain, dark urine, and changes in the amount of urine. Seek medical help in the event of such symptoms.

This medicine may increase levels of the hormone prolactin produced by the body. In women, this can lead to unwanted production of breast milk, irregular periods, or difficulty conceiving. Men may experience decreased sexual ability, enlarged breasts, or inability to produce sperm. Patients should report these symptoms immediately to their doctor.

Some male patients may experience painful and prolonged erections which last for four hours or more. Stop treatment and seek immediate medical help.

Serious allergic reactions to Seroquel are rare, yet patients should be aware of symptoms including rash, itching and swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.

How to Store Seroquel

Seroquel should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep away from children and pets.

Unwanted medication should be disposed of properly and should not be poured into drains or flushed down the toilet. Patients should consult a pharmacist or their local waste disposal company to find out more about safe disposal methods.

Seroquel Drug Information

Seroquel Overview

Seroquel 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. Seroquel 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.
Seroquel Warnings

There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (such as stroke, heart failure, fast/irregular heartbeat, pneumonia) when Seroquel is used by older adults with dementia. Seroquel is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems. Discuss the risks and benefits of Seroquel, 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. Therefore, 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. Seroquel is not approved for use in children under 10 years old.
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 Seroquel 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 Seroquel by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily at bedtime. The Dosage of Seroquel 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 Seroquel at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Take Seroquel 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 Seroquel more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. It is important to continue taking Seroquel as prescribed even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Seroquel without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when Seroquel 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 persists or worsens.
Seroquel Precautions

Before taking quetiapine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using Seroquel, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history,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). Seroquel 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,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. Seroquel 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 Seroquel, 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 Seroquel, especially drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, and QT prolongation (see above). Drowsiness, dizziness, and lightheadedness can increase the risk of falling. During pregnancy, Seroquel should be used only when clearly needed. Babies born to mothers who have used Seroquel 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 Seroquel 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 Seroquel during pregnancy. Seroquel 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.
Seroquel Misdose

If you miss a dose of Seroquel, 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.
Seroquel 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. Seroquel 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 Seroquel.
Seroquel Side Effects

Constipation, drowsiness, upset stomach, tiredness, weight gain, blurred vision, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly. Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur, especially when you first start or increase your dose of Seroquel. Dizziness and lightheadedness can increase the risk of falling. Get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. Remember that your doctor has prescribed Seroquel because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using Seroquel do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects,restlessness/constant need to move, shakiness (tremor), mental/mood changes (such as increased anxiety, depression, thoughts of suicide), difficulty swallowing, constipation with persistent abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, 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,fainting, seizure, severe dizziness. Seroquel 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. Seroquel 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). Seroquel may rarely cause a very serious condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS).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 Seroquel and get medical help right away, or permanent problems could occur. A very serious allergic reaction to Seroquel is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction,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. 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.
List of Seroquel side effects
Seroquel Storage

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 when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: All medical content is supplied by a third party company who is independent from this web site. As such, this web site can not guarantee the reliability, accuracy, and /or medical efficacy of the information provided. In all circumstances, you should seek the advice of a health professional pertaining to drug, treatment and/or medical condition advice. Note that not all products are shipped by our contracted Canadian pharmacy. This website contracts with dispensaries around the world that ship products directly to our customers. Some of the jurisdiction include but are not limited to United Kingdom, Europe, Turkey, India, Canada, Vanuatu, Mauritius, and USA. The items within your order may be shipped from any one of these jurisdiction depending on the availability and cost of the products at the time you place your order. The products are sourced from these countries as well as others. Please note that the product appearance may vary from actual product received depending on availability.

Seroquel

What is a generic medication?

Related Products

Seroquel Helps Treat the Following Conditions:

Schizophrenia

Bipolar Disorder

Depression

Seroquel Active Ingredient

Generic Seroquel Alternative: Quetiapine Fumarate

General Drug Information

What is Seroquel and What Is It Used For?

Warnings

Usage and Application

Considerations Before Taking Seroquel

Delayed and Omitted Doses

Other Medications and Seroquel

Adverse Reactions

Serious Side Effects

Diabetes

Other Risks

How to Store Seroquel

Seroquel Drug Information

Seroquel Overview

Seroquel Warnings

How to Use Seroquel

Seroquel Precautions

Seroquel Misdose

Seroquel Interactions

Seroquel Side Effects

Seroquel Storage