Seroquel (generic name: quetiapine) is a medication utilized to change the neurotransmitter (chemicals) levels in your brain. It belongs to a group of medicines known as anti-psychotics and its side effects include dizziness, dry mouth, headaches, weight gain and anxiety, states Drugs.com. There are a few specific uses for Seroquel, from treatment of schizophrenia to the depression phase of bipolar disorder.
Schizophrenia
Seroquel is commonly used to treat a mental illness called schizophrenia. According to the Mayo Clinic, schizophrenia is characterized by such symptoms as delusions (false beliefs), hallucinations (hearing voices or seeing things that don't exist) and social isolation. You may also experience paranoia and feel emotionless. In some cases, schizophrenia can affect your work. Seroquel can control these symptoms by manipulating dopamine and serotonin (types of neurotransmitters) in your brain. Drugs.com states your doctor may prescribe a Seroquel dosage anywhere between 150 to 500 milligrams. Dosage is dependent on the severity of your schizophrenia symptoms.
Depression Phase of Bipolar Disorder
According to Drugs.com, Seroquel can treat the depression phase of your bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric disorder of mood swings. You may be euphoric one week and depressed the next. Symptoms of depression include agitation, irritability, sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, appetite changes and difficulty concentrating, says MedlinePlus. Typically, you will receive 300 milligrams of Seroquel daily.
Mania
Seroquel is also used to treat the manic phase of your bipolar disorder. MedlinePlus states that symptoms of mania include racing thoughts, lack of self-control, increased energy and such dangerous behaviors as binge drinking, promiscuity and drug use. Your doctor can prescribe up to 800 milligrams of Seroquel to treat your manic episodes, says Drugs.com.
