Quetiapine (Seroquel)

Quetiapine, also known as Seroquel, is an antipsychotic medication used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and treatment refractory obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). It’s a type of medication called a second generation antipsychotic because it’s newer than the first generation antipsychotics that were developed in the 1950s. This means that it has less severe side effects than older medications like Thorazine while still treating mental disorders effectively.

Quetiapine (brand name Seroquel) belongs to a class of medications called atypical antipsychotics. It affects chemicals in your brain that may become unbalanced, causing mental and emotional problems. Atypical antipsychotics work by affecting certain natural chemicals in your brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters help nerves communicate with each other and are important for normal thinking and moods.

Common side effects of quetiapine include dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision. The dosage amount and length of time you’ve been taking quetiapine can affect how common side effects appear. Tell your provider if you experience any persistent or serious side effects.

Take quetiapine exactly as directed by your provider. Your provider may start you on a low dose and gradually increase your dose during your treatment. If you miss a dose of quetiapine, take it as soon as you remember–unless it is almost time for the next dose. If you stop taking quetiapine for a week or longer, speak to your provider before you start taking it again.

Quetiapine interacts with a number of other medications, and it’s important to be aware of potential drug interactions before you begin taking it. This can help reduce your risk of adverse reactions, or side effects. Taking quetiapine with other drugs that affect neurotransmitters may result in an increased risk of side effects. Before you take quetiapine, talk to your provider about any drugs or supplements you are currently taking.

If you’re over 65 years old, you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or suffer from heart disease or blood disorders, talk to your provider before taking quetiapine. Let your provider know your medical history and if you have any allergies. Alcohol or marijuana can make you more dizzy or drowsy while taking quetiapine. Tell your provider about any prescription or OTC medications you’re taking, as well as any vitamins or supplements.

Most people begin to feel its effects within one or two weeks of taking it for the first time. However, it may take four to six weeks for quetiapine to take full effect. The exact speed at which quetiapine works depends on a variety of factors, including your weight and any other conditions you may have (such as depression). If you don't find Quetiapine is helping your symptoms, talk to your provider about possibly changing your dose or switching to a different medication.

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