Seroquel (Quetiapine)

Description

Quetiapine, commonly referred to as Seroquel, is a medication used to treat a number of psychological disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. This medication is an antipsychotic and thus is only suitable for individuals above the age of 13.

 

 

 

How It Works

 

As an antipsychotic, Seroquel works by affecting the brain chemicals in the body. Conditions such as depression, bipolar and schizophrenia are caused due to chemical, neurotransmitters to be more specific, imbalances in the brain. For instance, bipolar disorder can be caused due to low levels of serotonin. Seroquel works by increasing the level of serotonin in the body and thereby establishes a chemical balance in the brain.

 

Uses

 

Seroquel is useful in treating a number of psychological disorders such as bipolar disorder (depressive episode), schizophrenia and major depression. It is also known to be a mood influencer since it can affect an individual’s sleep, appetite, energy and a number of other factors. Thus, this medication is used to treat sudden and abnormal mood swings. Moreover, individuals experiencing hallucinations take this medication in order to enhance their concentration.

 

Dosage

 

You can consume this medication with or without food depending on your personal preference. Seroquel is usually taken twice or thrice a day. However, your prescription might differ depending on your personal health condition. It is best to start with a low dosage and increase it gradually over the course of the treatment. This will enable you to get accustomed to the medication and will also reduce the risk of side effects.

 

This medication must be taken every day on a regular basis in order to experience its best benefits. Thus, do not forget or skip your dosage. You can take the medication at the same time every day to remember your dosage.

 

Side Effects

 

The following are some common side effects that individuals experience when taking this medication.

 

 Problems with speech
 Twitching of lips and eyes
 Lightheaded feeling
 Severe nervous system reaction
 Blurred vision
 High blood sugar
 Low blood cell counts

 

You will not necessarily experience all of the above. Yet, most patients do experience of these side effects. If you do too, immediately contact your physician for medical assistance.

 

Precautions

 

 Do not consume alcohol during this treatment process. It can increase the risk of side effects.

 

 This medication can impair your thinking. So, do not drive or work with machinery after taking a dose.

 

 Consume a lot of water during the treatment since you are more susceptible to becoming dehydrated.

 

 Do not stop consuming this medication abruptly. This can result in painful withdrawal symptoms.

 

 Pay regular visits to your physician and get therapy in order to avoid suicidal thoughts.

 

Self Administration

 

This medication can be used with a combination of other drugs that are used to treat depression. However, when mixing Seroquel with other drugs, it is important to ensure that they do not react to each other in a negative manner.

 

Thus, make sure to inform your physician about your medical history before using this drug.

 

It is best to avoid this medication during the period of pregnancy and breastfeeding since the effects of the medication can harm the baby.