Seroquel XR

The active ingredient in Seroquel XR is quetiapine. It is an atypical antipsychotic that works by affecting chemicals in the brain, mainly dopamine and serotonin. These brain chemicals influence mood, behavior, and thinking. By balancing their activity, Seroquel XR can reduce symptoms such as hallucinations, unstable mood, or depressive states. It also has calming effects, which can help with sleep or agitation in some patients, though this varies by individual.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Seroquel XR. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Seroquel XR:

• Take Seroquel XR once daily, usually in the evening, unless your healthcare provider instructs otherwise. Swallow the extended-release tablets whole; do not split, crush, or chew them. This will affect how the medicine is released.
• Take the medication on an empty stomach or with a light meal, as directed.
• Your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it to reduce the risk of side effects such as lightheadedness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take extra tablets to make up for a missed dose.
• Avoid alcohol while taking Seroquel XR because it may increase drowsiness and affect how the drug works.

Some mild or common side effects of Seroquel XR seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Drowsiness or sedation.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Dry mouth.
• Constipation.
• Increased appetite or weight gain.
• Upset stomach.
• Blurred vision.
• Increased cholesterol or triglycerides.
• Weakness or fatigue.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Seroquel XR. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Suicidal thoughts or worsening depression, especially in young adults and adolescents.
• Symptoms of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) include high fever, stiff muscles, confusion, or a fast heart rate.
• Signs of a serious allergic reaction, including hives, swelling, or trouble swallowing.
• Severe dizziness or fainting, which may be related to low blood pressure.
• Trouble swallowing or breathing.
• Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include extreme thirst or frequent urination.
• Signs of low white blood cells, including fever, sore throat, or frequent infections.
• Eye changes such as cataracts or worsening blurred vision.
• Symptoms of QT prolongation, such as irregular heartbeat.
• Unusual movements or tics, which may be signs of extrapyramidal symptoms or tardive dyskinesia.
• Signs of hyperprolactinemia (high prolactin levels), such as breast changes.
• Severe constipation.
• High fever or dehydration.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Seroquel XR. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Seroquel XR, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• A history of heart disease, irregular heartbeat, or QT prolongation.
• Low blood pressure (hypotension) or episodes of fainting.
• High cholesterol or triglycerides.
• Diabetes or a family history of diabetes.
• Thyroid problems, including hypothyroidism.
• A history of seizures.
• Liver disease.
• Past suicidal thoughts or depression.
• Cataracts or other eye conditions.
• Low white blood cell count (agranulocytosis).
• A history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
• A history of breast cancer.

Boxed Warning

• Seroquel XR carries an FDA boxed warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults when used for major depressive disorder and other psychiatric disorders. It is also not approved for treating dementia-related psychosis due to an increased risk of death in elderly patients.

Are allergic to quetiapine or any inactive ingredient in the formulation of Seroquel XR.

Some people may start feeling calmer or notice improved sleep within the first few days. However, benefits for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder may take several days to a few weeks. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you do not feel immediate improvement.

When Seroquel XR is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and certain HIV medicines.
• CYP3A4 inducers such as carbamazepine, rifampin, or St. John’s wort may lower quetiapine levels.
• Other antipsychotics or antidepressants.
• Lithium or divalproex, which may be used with Seroquel XR, but require monitoring.
• Blood pressure medications may increase the risk of low blood pressure.
• Heart medicines such as amiodarone may affect the QT interval.
• Magnesium supplements are used at high doses.
• Alcohol or sedatives that increase drowsiness.
• Thioridazine.

Seroquel XR is available as extended-release tablets in several strengths, such as 50 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg. Your doctor will prescribe the dose that fits your condition, age, and response to treatment. Dose adjustments are usually made slowly to help reduce side effects.

Store Seroquel XR at room temperature, out of reach of children and pets.

Seroquel XR is manufactured by AstraZeneca.

Yes. Generic quetiapine extended-release tablets are available.

Do not stop taking Seroquel XR suddenly without guidance from your healthcare provider. Stopping the medication too quickly may lead to withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, trouble sleeping, irritability, or worsening mental health symptoms. Your doctor may slowly reduce your dose to avoid these effects.

Seroquel XR should be used during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh potential risks. Babies exposed late in pregnancy may experience temporary withdrawal symptoms after birth. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Quetiapine passes into breast milk in small amounts. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.