Seroquel

Submitted by Karen McClorey on December 9, 2009 - 1:17pm

Seroquel®, (quetiapine) belongs to a series of neuroleptics known as "atypical antipsychotics", which have, over the last two decades, become increasingly popular alternatives to "typical antipsychotics", such as haloperidol (Haldol®).

Benefits of Seroquel

Seroquel is an atypical antipsychotic that has a low incidence of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) which are associated with involuntary movements of the body, especially of the face and neck.

Important Information on Seroquel

Indications: antipsychotic

Side Effects: dizziness, weight gain, drowsiness, low blood pressure

Warnings: Elderly patients who suffer from dementia-related psychosis should use caution when being treated with Seroquel. Use in children and adolescents should be limited to only when the benefit outweighs the risk, as an increase in suicidal behavior has been seen.

Useful Information from the Pharmacist

Uses for Seroquel

Seroquel is FDA indicated for:

bipolar disorder, depressed phase
manic bipolar I disorder
schizophrenia

When Seroquel Should Not be Used

Seroquel should not be used in patients who have experienced an allergic reaction to quetiapine or any of its components.

Dosing and Overdosing

Seroquel Dosing

Adult dose varies depending on the disorder being treated:

Bipolar disorder: 50mg by mouth daily for one day, then 100mg daily for one day, then 200mg daily for one day, then 300mg daily for one day (all given at bedtime). Doses may need to be increased depending on patient needs; 400mg on day 5, increased to 600mg on day 8.

Manic bipolar I disorder: Initial 50mg by mouth twice daily, increased by 50mg twice daily on days 2 and 3 to a target dose of 400mg daily on the fourth day (given as a twice daily dose). Maintenance dose adjustments can be increased to a max of 800mg/day (max dose).

Schizophrenia: Initial 25mg by mouth twice daily, increased by 25 – 50mg 2 – 3 times a day on the second and third day. Maintenance dose can be established by increasing the dose every 2 days by 25 – 50mg twice daily. Most effective dose is typically 150 – 750mg per day in 2 – 3 divided doses; max dose 800 mg/day.

Pediatric dosing has not been established.

Seroquel Overdosing

Signs and symptoms of overdose include an exaggeration on side effects: drowsiness, sedation, low blood pressure, etc.

If you have taken more of this medication than the doctor has prescribed, contact the Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222 or seek medical attention right away.

Seroquel Side Effects

Common side effects include:

weight gain
drowsiness
dizziness
low blood pressure
irregular heartbeat

Drug Interactions with Seroquel

Seroquel should be used with caution in patients taking medications to treat high blood pressure or other heart conditions.

Seroquel should be used with caution in patients taking:

Phenytoin
Divalproex
Cimetidine
Ketoconazole

How Seroquel Works

Seroquel works on neurotransmitters (chemical substances) that transmit nerve impulses in the body from one nerve to another by antagonizing (working in opposition) serotonin, dopamine, histamine and alpha adrenergic receptors. These receptors are important in helping to maintain things such as mood and blood pressure.

Discussion Points for You and Your Healthcare Provider

Talk to your healthcare provider about all of the medications you are taking including over-the-counter medications, vitamins and herbal supplements.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you have heart problems, diabetes, or a history of seizures.

This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist or other healthcare provider for more information.