What quetiapine is for
Common brands: Seroquel . Quetiapine for schizophrenia
Quetiapine is a medication used to treat severe depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. It can only be obtained with a prescription. Quetiapine is a medicine called an antipsychotic.
It can be applied to:
- treat schizophrenia
- treat or prevent symptoms of bipolar disorder, including low mood (depression) and high mood (mania)
It can also be used to treat severe depression in conjunction with other medications.
How to take quetiapine
Typically, quetiapine is sold in swallowable tablets. Additionally, there is a liquid (oral suspension).
The reason for taking it will determine how much you need to take.
Typically, you’ll begin with a low dosage and raise it over the course of the first few days. After then, it can be changed until you discover a dosage that suits you.
When quetiapine is taken:
- Take it once or twice a day, with or without meal, as directed by your physician.
- Don’t split, chew, or crush the pills; instead, swallow them whole with a glass of water.
- If you’re using liquid quetiapine, make sure you measure out the correct amount according to the directions that come with the medication.
Make sure you always read the leaflet or package that comes with your medication. If you have any concerns or are unsure about how to take it, consult a doctor or pharmacist. Quetiapine for schizophrenia
If you miss a dose of quetiapine
Unless it’s almost time for your next dose, take your quetiapine as soon as you recall.
When your next dose is almost due, skip the one you missed and take it at the regular time.
Never take two doses to make up for one that you missed.
If you take too much quetiapine
Because quetiapine can occasionally be harmful, it’s critical to get medical guidance if you take too much of it.
Don’t drive if you’re ordered to go to A&E. Request a ride or dial 999 to request an ambulance.
Bring any leftover medication, the quetiapine container or leaflet, and any other medications you take. Quetiapine for schizophrenia
How to stop taking quetiapine
For as long as your doctor recommends, continue taking quetiapine.
It may create withdrawal symptoms, so don’t stop taking it abruptly.
Your dosage will typically need to be progressively lowered if your doctor recommends that you stop taking it. Always heed the advise of your physician.
Side effects of quetiapine
Quetiapine can have side effects, much like any medication, albeit not everyone experiences them.
Common side effects
- dry mouth
- dizziness
- constipation
- a fast heartbeat
- drowsiness, tiredness and
- problems sleeping
- feeling irritated or agitated
- missed or irregular periods
- shaking, muscle stiffness or difficulty moving
- putting on weight
After taking quetiapine, if you have drowsiness, dizziness, or sleepiness, avoid using machinery, driving, or riding a bike until these symptoms are gone. Quetiapine for schizophrenia
Serious side effects
- an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – causing symptoms such as a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash or difficulty breathing
- a severe skin reaction, such as painful blisters or peeling skin (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), or a rash with flu-like symptoms and swollen glands
- a condition called metabolic syndrome – causing symptoms including an increase in fat around your tummy, high blood pressure and an increase in blood sugar
- problems with your liver – causing symptoms such as tiredness, itchy skin and yellowing of the whites of the eyes (jaundice)
Who can and cannot take quetiapine
Quetiapine is safe for most adults to take.
Children and young people under the age of 18 are typically not advised to use it. However, under a doctor’s supervision, children between the ages of 12 and 17 may occasionally receive it.
Not everyone should take quetiapine. You might not be able to take it, for instance, if
- you’ve had an allergic reaction to quetiapine in the past
- you or someone in your family has a heart condition, such as a heart rhythm problem or a weak heart
- you have certain conditions, such as low blood pressure, a liver problem, or diabetes
- you’ve had a seizure (fit) in the past
- you have a history of alcohol or drug misuse
Inform your doctor of any medical issues you may have before taking quetiapine.
Taking quetiapine with other medicines, food and drink
Certain medications, treatments, and supplements could not work well with quetiapine, such as:
- certain medicines used to treat heart conditions
- certain medicines used to treat HIV
- antibiotics, such as erythromycin and clarithromycin
- antifungal medicines, such as clotrimazole and fluconazole
- nefazodone for treating depression
Tell your doctor if you take any other medications, herbal remedies, vitamins, or supplements before starting quetiapine.
Food, drink and alcohol with quetiapine
When taking quetiapine, avoid consuming grapefruit juice.
Alcohol might induce drowsiness, therefore it’s advisable to limit your intake. Quetiapine for schizophrenia
