The anti-psychotic drug Seroquel, also known by its generic name of quetiapine fumerate, provides an effective treatment option for schizophrenia and specific aspects of bipolar disorder. Unfortunately, Seroquel is also associated with an increased risk of diabetes, especially in people who are obese or those who have a strong family history of diabetes, according to Daily Med. The initial symptoms of Seroquel-related diabetes are those of hyperglycemia, or high blood glucose.
Polyphagia
Polyphagia, or extreme hunger, is one of the 3 P's that make up the initial symptoms of hyperglycemia from diabetes. Although individuals with polyphagia eat more food than normal, Seroquel-related diabetes interferes with glucose metabolism. Although there's extra glucose circulating in their bloodstream, people with early diabetes may actually lose weight because their cells aren't receiving the nutrients they need to function normally, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Polydipsia
The second P of early hyperglycemia is polydipsia, or unusual thirst. People taking Seroquel often experience mouth dryness as a side effect of the drug, which makes them more thirsty than usual. Despite drinking plenty of water and other fluids, however, individuals with polydipsia related to high blood glucose don't feel like their thirst is slaked.
Polyuria
Polyuria, the third P, describes frequent and excessive urination. It's normal for people who drink a lot of fluids to excrete extra urine, of course, but people with diabetes-related polyuria urinate so often that they actually become dehydrated, says the American Diabetes Association, ADA.
Generalized Symptoms
When Seroquel causes blood glucose levels to rise, people taking the drug may feel weak, extremely fatigued or even nauseated, according to the ADA. Since these symptoms are also common adverse effects of the drug itself, it's important to discuss continuing symptoms with a doctor to rule out early diabetes.
Localized Symptoms
The American Diabetes Association also lists a number of localized symptoms seen in the early stages of diabetes. These include numbness and tingling of the hands and feet; frequent infections; blurred vision; recurring infections of the skin, gums or bladder; and cuts or bruises that heal slowly.
