Seroquel (Quetiapine)

Description

SEROQUEL is a prescription medication used to treat psychotic disorders and symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and hostility. This antipsychotic medication works by altering actions of chemicals in the brain. SEROQUEL is commonly used to treat schizophrenia in adults and children who are at least 13 years old. It may also be used to treat bipolar disorder (manic depression) in adults and children who are at least 10 years old. Most physicians may prescribe SEROQUEL along with other antidepressant medications to treat major depressive disorder in adults.

Directions

Patients should closely follow the instruction provided by their doctor. Never take SEROQUEL in excess amounts or for an extended period of time than recommended by your doctor because it can cause a serious movement disorder that may not be reversible. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to ensure optimal results.

It is recommended to take SEROQUEL with a full glass of water - with or without food. Do not crush, break, or open the tablet. The tablet is formed for an extended- release so it slowly enters the body. Tampering with the tablet may affect its performance.

NOTE: SEROQUEL can cause patients to have a false positive drug screening test. If you provide a urine sample for drug screening, tell the laboratory staff that you are taking this medication.

Cautions

Before taking SEROQUEL, tell your doctor if you are or have:

• allergies to SEROQUEL or any chemical contained in this medication
• allergic reactions to any other medications
• taking other medications, including prescription, nonprescription & herbal medications
• liver or kidney disease
• heart disease, high blood pressure, heart rhythm problems
• history of heart attack or stroke
• a history of low white blood cell (WBC) counts
• a thyroid disorder
• seizures or epilepsy
• cataracts
• high cholesterol or triglycerides
• a personal or family history of diabetes
• trouble swallowing
• pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• breastfeeding

SEROQUEL may cause patients to experience thoughts of suicide when they first start taking this medication, especially in patients younger than 24 years of age. Family members and friends should be cautious of mood changes or symptoms caused by this medication. SEROQUEL may cause patients to develop high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Symptoms of hyperglycemia include increased thirst or urination, excessive hunger, or weakness. If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar levels on a regular basis while you are taking this medication.

SEROQUEL should not be used by patients who are suffering from dementia or related psychotic conditions because it can cause heart failure, sudden death, or pneumonia in older adults with dementia-related conditions.

This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness. It is strongly recommended that patients not drive, use machinery, or participate in any activity that requires them to be alert until they are sure they can perform such activities safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages at all times while on this medication.

Side Effects

Each medication has its own list of known side effects. A side effect can be defined as unwanted responses to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. They can range from mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this SEROQUEL. Many of these side effects can be managed, while others may decrease over time.

Common side effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, dry mouth, constipation, upset stomach, stomach pain, headache, tiredness, excessive weight gain, runny nose, rash, ear pain, flu symptoms, swollen ankles and blurred vision.

More serious side effects include very stiff muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, extreme fatigue, involuntary muscle movements, trouble swallowing, problems with speech, blurred vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights, increased thirst and urination, excessive hunger, fruity breath odor, weakness, nausea and vomiting, fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms or white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips. If you experience any of the above noted side effects, stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention.

Immediately contact your doctor if you notice any of your symptoms worsen. Symptoms may include mood or behavior changes, panic attacks, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, restlessness, hyperactivity, increased depression or thought of suicide.

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.