(quetiapine)
Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) belongs to a class of medications known as antipsychotics. It is used to treat symptoms of Schizophrenia, manic and depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder, and symptoms of Depression after failed treatment with antidepressant medications.
Available form
Dosage
24-Hour Release Tablet
50MG, 150MG, 200MG, 300MG, 400MG
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The usual recommend starting dose for schizophrenia or manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder is 300 mg once daily on day one, 600 mg once daily on day two, and up to a maximum of 800 mg once daily from day three onwards.
The usual recommended starting dose for depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder is 50 mg once daily on day one, 100 mg once daily on day two, 200 mg once daily on day three, and 300 mg once daily on day four and onwards. The dose may be further increased depending on response and tolerability. The maximum dose is 600 mg daily.
When treating a manic episode of bipolar disorder, the usual recommended starting dose is 300 mg taken once daily on day one, 600 mg taken once daily on day two and up to a maximum of 800 mg on day three and onwards.
The usual recommended starting dose for major depressive disorder is 50 mg once daily on days one and two, then 150 mg once daily on day three and onwards. The dose may be further increased up to a maximum of 300 mg per day depending on response and tolerability.
Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) can be taken with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole with some water or other fluid. Do not chew or crush Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), as this will increase the amount of medication your body absorbs at a single time and will cause side effects.
Do not stop taking Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) or change the time of the day you take it without consulting your doctor. Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) XR is usually taken in the evening.
It is important to take Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) exactly as prescribed by your doctor to ensure that you are getting the maximum benefit from the medication. If you miss a dose by a few hours, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If most of the day has passed since the missed dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) at room temperature, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.
The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes Seroquel XR (Quetiapine). If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) with your doctor.
The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking Seroquel XR (Quetiapine). Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.
Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.
Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:
Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking Seroquel XR (Quetiapine).
50 mg
Each peach-coloured, capsule-shaped, biconvex tablet, intagliated with "XR 50" on one side and plain on the other, contains Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) fumarate equivalent to 50 mg of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) free base. Nonmedicinal ingredients: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium citrate; coating: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, polyethylene glycol 400, red ferric oxide, titanium dioxide, and yellow ferric oxide.
150 mg
Each white, capsule-shaped, biconvex tablet, intagliated with "XR 150" on one side and plain on the other, contains Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) fumarate equivalent to 150 mg of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) free base. Nonmedicinal ingredients: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium citrate; coating: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, polyethylene glycol 400, titanium dioxide.
200 mg
Each yellow, capsule-shaped, biconvex tablet, intagliated with "XR 200" on one side and plain on the other, contains Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) fumarate equivalent to 200 mg of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) free base. Nonmedicinal ingredients: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium citrate; coating: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, polyethylene glycol 400, titanium dioxide, and yellow ferric oxide.
300 mg
Each pale yellow, capsule-shaped, biconvex tablet, intagliated with "XR 300" on one side and plain on the other, contains Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) fumarate equivalent to 300 mg of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) free base. Nonmedicinal ingredients: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium citrate; coating: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, polyethylene glycol 400, titanium dioxide, and yellow ferric oxide.
400 mg
Each white, capsule-shaped, biconvex tablet, intagliated with "XR 400" on one side and plain on the other, contains Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) fumarate equivalent to 400 mg of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) free base. Nonmedicinal ingredients: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium citrate; coating: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, polyethylene glycol 400, titanium dioxide.
Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) should not be taken by anyone who is allergic to Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) or to any of the ingredients of the medication.
There may be an interaction between Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) and any of the following:
If you are taking any of these medications, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:
An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.
Medications other than those listed above may interact with Seroquel XR (Quetiapine). Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the Nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.
Before you begin taking a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should take Seroquel XR (Quetiapine).
Blood cholesterol: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) has been associated with increased blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. If you have elevated blood cholesterol levels, discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Blood changes: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) can cause a decrease in white blood cells, red blood cells (blood cells that carry oxygen), or platelets (blood cells that help form Blood Clots). If you have a history of low white blood cells, anemia, or blood clotting problems, discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Blood clots: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may increase the chance of blood clot formation, causing reduction of blood flow to organs or the extremities.
If you have a history of clotting you may be at increased risk of experiencing blood clot-related problems such as Heart Attack, stroke, or clots in the deep veins of your leg. Discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
If you experience symptoms such as sharp pain and swelling in the leg, difficulty breathing, chest pain, blurred vision or difficulty speaking, contact your doctor immediately.
Body temperature: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) can disrupt the body's ability to control body temperature. People who exercise vigorously, who are exposed to extreme heat, are dehydrated, or are taking anticholinergic medications (e.g., Benztropine, Oxybutynin) are more at risk. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you feel very hot and are unable to cool.
Cataracts: Changes in the lens of the eye may develop with long-term use of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine). Regular eye exams are recommended before and after treatment with Seroquel XR (Quetiapine). If you notice any change in your vision, contact your physician as soon as possible.
Dependence/tolerance: There have been reports of dependence, tolerance, misuse and abuse of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine). People with a history of drug or alcohol dependence should be closely monitored by their doctor while using Seroquel XR (Quetiapine).
Diabetes: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may cause an increase in blood sugar levels (may cause a loss of blood glucose control) and glucose tolerance may change. People with diabetes may find it necessary to monitor their blood sugar more frequently while using Seroquel XR (Quetiapine).
If you have diabetes or are at risk for developing diabetes, discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may cause dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid operating hazardous machinery (including cars) until you are certain that the medication does not impair your mental alertness, judgment, or physical coordination.
Enlarged prostate: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may worsen symptoms of an enlarged prostate, such as reduced urine flow. If you have a prostate condition, discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Glaucoma: People with glaucoma (increased pressure in the eyes) may find that Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) makes the symptoms of glaucoma worse. If you have glaucoma, discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Heart conditions: If you have a heart condition such as Angina, heart failure, and irregular heartbeat, or have had a heart attack, discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Heart rhythm: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) can cause changes to the normal rhythm of the heart, including an irregular heartbeat called QT prolongation. QT prolongation is a serious life-threatening condition that can cause fainting, seizures, and sudden death. If you are at risk for heart rhythm problems (e.g., people with heart failure, angina, low potassium or magnesium levels), discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Hormonal changes: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), in rare instances, can cause an increase in the hormone called prolactin, which may lead to production of breast milk in women and altered monthly periods. It may also lead to swelling of the breasts in men. High levels of prolactin combined with a condition called hypogonadism, may increase the risk of Osteoporosis in men and women.
Hypersensitivity syndrome: A Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) called hypersensitivity syndrome has occurred for some people with the use of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine). Stop taking the medication and get immediate medical attention if you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including extensive skin rash, fever, swollen glands, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or flu-like symptoms with skin rash or blistering.
Kidney problems: If you have kidney problems, discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Liver problems: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) has been reported to cause liver failure, which has in rare cases, caused death. Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may also cause a decrease in liver function. If you experience symptoms of liver problems such as fatigue, feeling unwell, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain or swelling, and itchy skin, contact your doctor immediately.
Low Blood Pressure: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may cause a lowering of blood pressure when rising from a sitting or lying position, or a racing heart rate, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded or feel your pulse is racing, and this feeling does not go away after a few minutes, call your doctor. Because Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, do not get up too quickly after you have been sitting or lying for prolonged periods.
Movement disorders: There is a risk of developing tardive dyskinesia (TD), a condition which causes repetitive, uncontrollable, and purposeless movements (such as grimacing; tongue protrusion; lip smacking; puckering; rapid eye blinking; rapid movements of the arms, legs, and body trunk). If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): A risk of developing this condition has been associated with antipsychotic medications, including Seroquel XR (Quetiapine). If you experience increased sweating and sensations of warmth, muscle stiffness, emotional and behavioural changes, or irregular heartbeat, contact your doctor immediately. People taking Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) should take care to avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated.
Pancreatitis: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) can cause the pancreas to become inflamed. If you have a history of pancreatitis, discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Report signs of pancreatitis such as abdominal pain on the upper left side, back pain, nausea, fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, or swollen abdomen to your doctor immediately.
If you have a history of pancreatitis, gallstones, Alcoholism, or high triglycerides, you may be more at risk of experiencing this.
Seizures: If you have a history of seizures, discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Sleep apnea: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may cause sleep apnea. If you have sleep apnea, or are taking medications which cause sedation or sleepiness, discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Stopping the medication: Stopping Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) suddenly may cause symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, upset stomach, headache, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness, and irritability. A gradual reduction in dose over a period of at least 1 or 2 weeks is recommended. If you are thinking of stopping the medication, check with your doctor first.
Suicidal or agitated behaviour: Adults and children taking Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may feel agitated (restless, anxious, aggressive, emotional, and feeling not like themselves), or they may want to hurt themselves or others. These symptoms may occur within several weeks after starting Seroquel XR (Quetiapine). If you experience these side effects or notice them in a family member who is taking Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will monitor you closely for these side effects while you are taking Seroquel XR (Quetiapine).
Thyroid changes: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) is associated with a decrease in thyroid hormone. If you have low thyroid (Hypothyroidism), discuss with your doctor how Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Weight gain: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) is associated with an increase in body weight. Your doctor may monitor you for weight changes while you are taking Seroquel XR (Quetiapine).
Pregnancy: The safety of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) use during pregnancy is not known. The use of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) by the mother in the last 3 months of pregnancy has resulted in the newborn experiencing withdrawal effects. Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Seroquel XR (Quetiapine), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children and adolescents: The safety and efficacy of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine) have not been established for children less than 18 years of age.
Seniors: There may be a higher risk of strokes, heart attacks, infections (e.g., pneumonia), and deaths associated with the use of antipsychotic medications by seniors. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using Seroquel XR (Quetiapine). If you notice the following signs and symptoms, get medical attention immediately:
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