Side Effects of Seroquel Overdose

Overview

Quetiapine is an antipsychotic drug sold under the brand name Seroquel. This drug is used to treat psychiatric disorders and can be used safely when the recommended dosage is taken. When someone overdoses on Seroquel, it can cause serious side effects. The side effects of Seroquel overdose can be life-threatening and should be treated immediately to prevent irreversible damage or death.

Fast Heartbeat

Seroquel overdose can cause a fast heartbeat, which is also called tachycardia. Tachycardia can increase the risk of stroke or heart attack, disrupt the normal function of the heart and cause sudden cardiac arrest. Severe tachycardia can also lead to sudden death. This side effect may be treated with intravenous medications or cardioversion, which is an electrical shock that is delivered to the heart to restore a normal heart rhythm.

Extreme Drowsiness

Extreme drowsiness causes a person to feel very sleepy. Someone who overdoses on Seroquel may have difficulty staying awake. This can make driving, operating heavy equipment and working with dangerous tools very hazardous.

Fainting

Fainting, also called syncope, is when someone temporarily loses consciousness. This is followed by a return to full alertness. When someone faints, there is also a loss of muscle tone that causes slumping or falling over. Fainting occurs when the brain does not get enough blood or oxygen.

Weakness

Muscle weakness can occur as a side effect of Seroquel overdose. This weakness can occur if the overdose causes fainting or it can occur because of a loss of muscle coordination. Once the overdose is treated, this weakness should resolve if the overdose did not cause permanent brain damage or stroke.

Dizziness

Seroquel overdose can result in dizziness, which is a term that describes feelings of weakness, unsteadiness, faintness and lightheadedness. If the dizziness creates the sensation of moving or spinning, it is referred to as vertigo. Dizziness can result in a loss of balance or coordination, making physical activity after a Seroquel overdose very dangerous.

Fatigue

Fatigue is defined by the National Institutes of Health as a lack of energy or feeling of tiredness during physical activities. This side effect of Seroquel overdose is dangerous, as it can cause someone to fall asleep at the wheel or doze off while operating dangerous equipment.