Generic Drugs // Other // Quetiapine (Seroquel)

Seroquel is used for:
Treating schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Seroquel is an atypical antipsychotic. Exactly how it works is not known. It affects certain receptors in the brain. This may help to improve symptoms associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Seroquel is used for:
Treating schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Seroquel is an atypical antipsychotic. Exactly how it works is not known. It affects certain receptors in the brain. This may help to improve symptoms associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Do NOT use Seroquel if:
    * you are allergic to any ingredient in Seroquel

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Seroquel:
Some medical conditions may interact with Seroquel. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

    * if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
    * if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
    * if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
    * if you or a family member has a history of bipolar disorder (manic depression), suicidal thoughts or attempts, mental or mood problems, or diabetes
    * if you drink alcohol or have a history of alcohol or substance abuse
    * if you have Alzheimer disease, dementia, or trouble swallowing, or you are very overweight
    * if you have a history of heart problems (eg, heart attack, heart failure, irregular heartbeat), stroke, blood vessel problems, high blood cholesterol levels, or high or low blood pressure
    * if you have history of blood problems (eg, low white blood cells), liver problems, thyroid problems, cataracts, narrow-angle glaucoma, seizures, neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), high blood prolactin levels, or breast cancer

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Seroquel . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

    * Alpha-blockers (eg, doxazosin) or medicine for high blood pressure because the risk of low blood pressure and fainting may be increased
    * Azole antifungals (eg, ketoconazole), fluvoxamine, HIV protease inhibitors (eg, ritonavir), macrolide antibiotics (eg, erythromycin), or telithromycin because they may increase the risk of Seroquel "s side effects
    * Barbiturates (eg, phenobarbital), carbamazepine, corticosteroids (eg, prednisone), phenytoin, rifampin, or thioridazine because they may decrease Seroquel"s effectiveness
    * Dopamine receptor agonists (eg, pramipexole) or levodopa because their effectiveness may be decreased by Seroquel

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Seroquel may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Seroquel:
Use Seroquel as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

    * Seroquel comes with an extra patient information sheet called a Medication Guide. Read it carefully. Read it again each time you get Seroquel refilled.
    * Take Seroquel by mouth with or without food.
    * Continue to take Seroquel even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.
    * Do not suddenly stop taking Seroquel without first talking with your doctor. You may have an increased risk of side effects. If you need to stop Seroquel or add a new medicine, your doctor will gradually lower your dose.
    * If you miss a dose of Seroquel , take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Seroquel.

Possible side effects of Seroquel:
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

    * Constipation; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; lightheadedness; nasal congestion; sore throat; stomach pain or upset; tiredness; vomiting; weakness; weight gain.

Proper storage of Seroquel:
Store Seroquel at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Seroquel out of the reach of children and away from pets.