Seroquel, known generically as quetiapine fumarate, is an atypical antipsychotic medication. It is a dopamine and serotonin receptor antagonist and a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Put simply, it affects the neurotransmitters in the central nervous system and corrects chemical imbalances.
Seroquel is available in a range of milligram strengths and is taken orally one to three times a day. It is also available as Seroquel XR, which is taken once daily. Seroquel can cause side effects, as can all psychiatric medications. The most frequently experienced side effects include lightheadedness, drowsiness, vomiting, sore throat, dry mouth, nasal stuffiness and gastrointestinal disturbances. Dangerous side effects can also occur, and your prescriber or pharmacist should discuss them with you prior to you taking the drug. It is known to create an increased risk of death when given to elderly patients for dementia, and the FDA has not approved the drug for that use.
Seroquel is currently approved by the FDA for three disorders, which are outlined below. It is available by brand name and generically.
Schizophrenia
Seroquel is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia. By regulating the chemicals in the brain, it helps to manage both the positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. These symptoms include visual and auditory hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, withdrawal, isolation and apathy.
Bipolar Disorder
Seroquel is indicated for the treatment of bipolar disorder, which was formerly called manic depression. It helps with the depressive episodes, the acute mania and the mixed episodes experienced in bipolar disorder. (Reference 2) The drug may be given as solo therapy or it may be administered with lithium or divalproex. (Reference 1) Symptoms of bipolar disorder are two-fold. The depressive symptoms may include sadness, suicidal thoughts and loss of interest. The manic symptoms may include euphoria, racing thoughts, rapid speech, impulsive behavior, aggressive behavior and lack of need for sleep.
Major Depressive Disorder as an Adjunctive Treatment
Seroquel is indicated for treatment of major depressive disorder that is not effectively managed by antidepressants. For this indication, it is given in combination with another antidepressant and not as solo therapy. The symptoms of major depression include sadness, loss of interest, sleep and eating disturbances, difficulty concentrating, agitation and withdrawal.
If You Have Concerns
If you feel that you or a loved one may be suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or major depression, seek help from a primary care provider or mental health professional. Many treatments are available, including a variety of medications for schizophrenia, and medications and therapy for bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder.
