Seroquel, also known as quetiapine, is an anti-psychotic drug used to treat people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. People who take Seroquel have an increased risk of hyperglycemia, or high blood glucose, associated with diabetes. People with risk factors such as obesity or a family history of diabetes are more likely to develop symptoms of hyperglycemia while taking Seroquel, according to Daily Med.
Cause
Experts have not yet clarified the causal relationship between Seroquel and diabetes symptoms, says Daily Med. On one hand, diabetes is becoming increasingly prevalent in the general population and may also be more common in individuals with schizophrenia. On the other hand, Daily Med notes that a number of epidemiological studies suggest that Seroquel contributes to high blood glucose levels and associated symptoms.
Types
In the early stages, Seroquel side effects related to diabetes reflect hyperglycemia, or high blood glucose levels. Continued hyperglycemia can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis and even diabetic hyperglycemia hyperosmolar coma, says RxList.
Features
Hyperglycemia is characterized by the 3Ps: polydipsia or excessive thirst, polyuria or excessive urination and polyphagia, which is excessive hunger. Individuals on Seroquel may also notice weakness, fatigue and nausea because of the hyperglycemia. According to MedlinePlus, diabetic ketoacidosis causes deep and rapid breathing, fruity-smelling breath, flushed face, pale and dry skin, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion and stupor. People who go into hyperosmolar comas may have seizures, lose sensation and strength in their muscles and even die, says MedlinePlus.
Prevention/Solution
Acknowledging the association between Seroquel and diabetes, RxList recommends that physicians order a fasting blood glucose level before prescribing Seroquel to people diagnosed with diabetes or who are at high risk for the disease. It is also vital to perform periodic blood glucose levels during the course of drug therapy. People taking Seroquel should know the early signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia and report them to their health care provider if they occur.
Potential
In some cases, symptoms of hyperglycemia disappear when people stop taking Seroquel. There is a distinct possibility, however, that the symptoms will continue and require ongoing treatment with diabetes drugs, says RxList.
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