SEROQUEL




BRAND NAMES
QUETIAPINE- Seroquel, Seroquel XR


BASIC SEROQUEL INFO
Habit forming? No
Prescription needed? Yes
Available as generic? No
Drug class: Antipsychotic


SEROQUEL MEDICAL USES
Treatment for symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
- Treats acute mania and depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder.


MEDICAL DOSAGE & SEROQUEL USAGE
How to take Seroquel:

- Tablet: Swallow with liquid. Seroquel may be taken with or without food.


When to take Seroquel:

- As directed by your doctor.

- 2 to 3 times a day at the same times each day.

- Prescribed dosages of Seroquel may be increased over the first few days of use.


If you forget a SEROQUEL dose:

- Take Seroquel as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, wait for the next scheduled dose (don't double this dose).


What drug does:

- The exact mechanism is unknown. It appears to alleviate symptoms of schizophrenia by blocking certain nerve impulses between nerve cells.


Time lapse before SEROQUEL works:

- One to 7 days.

- Further increases in the dosage amount may be necessary to relieve symptoms for some patients.


Don't take SEROQUEL with:

- Any other medicine or any dietary supplement without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.


SEROQUEL OVERDOSE
SYMPTOMS: Drowsiness and slurred speech; other symptoms may occur that were not observed in medical studies of the drug.
SEROQUEL SIDE EFFECTS

Life-threatening:

High fever, rapid pulse, profuse sweating, muscle rigidity, confusion and irritability, seizures (rare neuroleptic malignant syndrome).

Common SEROQUEL Side Effects:

Dizziness, difficulty in speaking or swallowing, shaking hands and fingers, trembling, vision problems, weakness, lightheadedness when arising from a sitting or lying position.  Drowsiness, constipation, weight gain, agitation, insomnia, headache, nervousness, runny nose, anxiety, dry mouth, personality disorder, arm or leg stiffness.

Infrequent SEROQUEL Side Effects:

Jerky or involuntary movements (in face, lips, jaw, tongue) chest pain, fast heartbeat. Fever, flu-like symptoms, twitching, mood or mental changes, speech unclear, swollen feet or ankles, appetite increased, cough, saliva increased, muscle tightness, muscle spasms (face, neck, back), joint pain, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, incontinence, abdominal pain.

Rare SEROQUEL Side Effects:

Breathing difficulty. High blood sugar (thirstiness, frequent urination, increased hunger, weakness).  Swollen face, rash, confusion, decreased sex drive, menstrual changes, sluggishness.
PRECAUTIONS

Don't take SEROQUEL if:

- You are allergic to quetiapine.


Before you start SEROQUEL, consult your doctor if:

- You have liver disease, heart disease or a blood vessel disorder.

- You have Alzheimer's.

- You have a history of breast cancer.

- You have intestinal blockage.

- You are subject to dehydration or low body temperature.

- You have a history of drug abuse or dependence.

- You have a family history of, are at risk for, or have diabetes.

- You have glaucoma or cataracts.

- You have prostate problems.

- You are allergic to any medication, food or other substance.

- You have a history of seizures.


Over age 60:

- Adverse reactions and side effects may be more severe than in younger persons.

- A lower Seroquel starting dosage is usually recommended until a response is determined.

Pregnancy:

- Decide with your doctor if Seroquel benefits justify any possible risk to unborn child.


Breast-feeding:

- It is unknown if Seroquel passes into milk.

- It is not recommended for nursing mothers.


Infants & children:

- Safety in children under age 18 has not been established.

- Use only under close medical supervision.


Prolonged SEROQUEL use:

- Consult with your doctor on a regular basis while taking this drug to check your progress or to discuss any increase or changes in side effects and the need for continued treatment.

- Long term effectiveness has not been established.

- Get eyes examined every 6 months.


Skin & sunlight:

- May cause rash or intensify sunburn in areas exposed to sun or ultraviolet light (photosensitivity reaction).

- Use sunscreen and avoid overexposure.

- Notify doctor if reaction occurs.


Driving, piloting or hazardous work:

- Don't drive or pilot aircraft until you learn how medicine affects you.

- Don't work around dangerous machinery.

- Don't climb ladders or work in high places.

- Danger increases if you drink alcohol or take medicine affecting alertness and reflexes.


Discontinuing:

- Don't discontinue Seroquel without consulting doctor.

- Dosage may require a gradual reduction before stopping.


Others:

- Get up slowly from a sitting or lying position to avoid any dizziness, faintness or lightheadedness.

- Advise any doctor or dentist whom you consult that you take this medicine.

- Hot temperatures, exercise, and hot baths can increase risk of heatstroke.

- Drug may affect body's ability to maintain normal temperature.

- Take medicine only as directed.

- Do not increase or reduce dosage without doctor's approval.





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