Seroquel (Quetiapine)

Seroquel (Quetiapine) Medication Information

Uses

Seroquel is an atypical antipsychotic that is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. 

Dosage

The tablets are available in several different strengths:

• 25 mg
• 50 mg
• 100 mg
• 200 mg
• 300 mg
• 400 mg

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Seroquel include:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Tremor
• Parkinsonism
• Akathisia
• Somnolence
• Weight gain

Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Quetiapine.

Precautions

Seroquel can cause movement disorders that in some cases are not reversible. If you notice movements that are involuntary report them to your doctor right away.

Seroquel, like other antipsychotics can cause an increase in blood sugar, which can lead to diabetes, or worsening of glucose control in those who have diabetes. 

In elderly patients with dementia, Seroquel can cause cardiovascular events which can lead to death.

Interactions

The most common drug interaction with Seroquel included:

• Alcohol
• Ketoconazole
• Ritonavir 
• Levodopa/carbidopa
• Cimetidine
• Phenytoin
• Carbamazepine 

Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Quetiapine. 

Storage

Store at room temperature (77ºF). 

Pharmacist Tips

• Seroquel can cause a drop in blood pressure with posture changes, especially when initiating treatment. 
• Seroquel can affect motor movement, if changes occur let your doctor know immediately. 
• Seroquel can be taken with or without food. 

Quetiapine FAQs

How long does it take for Seroquel to kick in?

It can take up to 6 weeks to see the full effect of Seroquel.

What are the bad side effects of Seroquel?

Some of the common side effects seen with Seroquel include dizziness, drowsiness, numbness of the mouth, and weight.

Why is Seroquel taken at night?

One of the most common side effects with Quetiapine is drowsiness, so it is recommended to take it at night to avoid this side effect. 

Can Seroquel make you sleep all day?

Seroquel can make people very drowsy, and it is one of the most common side effect with this medication. If you are sleeping all day your doctor might want to adjust your dose. 

Is Seroquel a mood stabilizer?

Yes, Seroquel can be considered a mood stabilizer. It is more specifically an antipsychotic. 

Related Drugs

• Abilify
• Geodon
• Latuda
• Saphris
• Seroquel XR
• Zyprexa

Reference:

Seroquel {package insert}. Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca; 2013.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/020639s064lbl.pdf