Seroquel Drug Information: Classification and Use
Seroquel - generic quetiapine fumarate - is classed as an atypical antipsychotic medication. It is used to treat psychotic symptoms of such illnesses as schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, including hallucinations, delusions, catatonia and paranoia. It is also approved for use in treating acute manic episodes of bipolar disorder with or without psychotic features, and has some antidepressant effects. Seroquel was made more efficient for acute mania by adding Lithium or Depakote to the therapy.
Seroquel Drug Warnings: Complications
Treatment with Seroquel is associated with the risk of some serious complications. These include:- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal illness whose symptoms include high fever, muscle rigidity, profuse sweating and dark urine. Read more: Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome.
- Tardive Dyskinesia, a movement disorder that may not go away unless treated promptly. Symptoms include uncontrolled movements of the lips and tongue. Read more: Tardive Dyskinesia.
- High blood sugar and diabetes. Patients who have diabetes mellitus or have risk factors such as obesity and family history of diabetes should have fasting blood glucose tests before beginning treatment with Seroquel and at regular intervals during treatment.
Rare but Significant Side Effects
In 1% or fewer of patients taking Seroquel in clinical trials, the following were reported:- Dizziness or fainting upon standing
- Cataracts
- Seizures
- Underactive thyroid
- Elevated cholesterol and triglycerides
Black Box Warning Regarding Elderly Patients
Seroquel carries the standard black box warning[/link required for all antipsychotics regarding increased risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.Pregnancy/Breast-Feeding
It is recommended that Seroquel treatment be discontinued during pregnancy. Women taking Seroquel should not breast-feed their infants.
Other Cautions and Warnings
- Do not drink alcoholic beverages while taking Seroquel.
- Avoid overheating and dehydration
- Seroquel is not approved for pediatric use
- Patients with liver disease should start at the lowest dose (25 mg) and increase the dosage slowly
Most Common Side Effects
- Weight Gain
- Sleepiness
- Headache
- Drop in blood pressure upon standing
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Upset stomach
Disclaimer: This is not intended to be all-inclusive or to replace information provided by your doctor or with the prescription from the manufacturer.
