Indications
Seroquel XR is a medication used to treat certain mental/mood conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other disorders. It contains the active ingredient quetiapine, which is an atypical antipsychotic medication. Quetiapine is in a class of medications called atypical antipsychotics. It works by changing the activity of certain natural substances in the brain.
Quetiapine can decrease hallucinations and improve your concentration. It helps you to think more clearly and positively about yourself, feel less nervous, and take a more active part in everyday life. It may also improve your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level. It can help prevent severe mood swings or decrease how often mood swings occur.
Uses and Dosage
Seroquel XR (Quetiapine Fumarate SR) is an extended-release tablet that is taken by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the evening without food or with a light meal. You should swallow the tablets whole and do not crush or chew the tablets, as doing so can release all the drugs at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
The dosage of Seroquel XR is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. You should always tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products. To minimize your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose.
The recommended dosage of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine Fumarate SR) varies depending on the medical condition being treated. For schizophrenia in adults, the recommended starting dose is 300 mg per day, with dose increases made at intervals as short as one day and in increments of up to 300 mg per day. For depressive episodes due to bipolar disorder, the recommended starting dose is 50 mg on day 1, then 100 mg on day 2, then 200 mg on day 3, and then 300 mg on day 4 and onward. The maintenance dose typically ranges from 400 mg to 800 mg per day for schizophrenia.
Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Doing so will not improve your condition any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. Continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped, and you may experience symptoms such as trouble sleeping, nausea, headache, diarrhea, and irritability.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine Fumarate SR):
- Abnormal liver function test
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Fast heartbeats
- Increased appetite
- Lack of energy
- Speech problems
- Stuffy nose
- Tiredness
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects of Seroquel XR (Quetiapine Fumarate SR):
- Blurred vision
- Chills
- Confusion
- Cough
- Dry mouth
- Eye pain
- Fainting
- Fast or uneven heartbeats
- Fever
- Fruity breath odor
- High fever
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Lightheadedness
- The mask-like appearance of the face
- Mouth sores
- Painful or difficult urination
- Problems with speech
- Seeing halos around lights
- Severe constipation
- Skin sores
- Sore throat
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Trouble breathing
- Trouble swallowing
- Tunnel vision
- Uncontrolled muscle movements in your face (chewing, lip smacking, frowning, tongue movement, blinking or eye movement)
- Very stiff (rigid) muscles
Form and Strength
Seroquel XR (Quetiapine Fumarate SR) is available in the following forms and strength:
Seroquel XR: Extended-Release Tablet
- 50 mg
- 150 mg
- 200 mg
- 300 mg
- 400 mg
Quetiapine Fumarate SR: Extended-Release Tablet
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
- 150 mg
- 200 mg
- 300 mg
- 400 mg
Caution
- Increased risk of mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis
- Increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults
- Increased risk of hypotension, seizures, and cognitive and motor impairment
- Increased risk of hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus, particularly in patients with pre-existing diabetes or risk factors for diabetes
- Possible risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a rare but potentially life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic medications
- Possible risk of tardive dyskinesia (TD), a potentially irreversible movement disorder that may develop with long-term use of antipsychotic medications.
- Possible drug interactions with other medications or substances, including alcohol and certain antibiotics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Seroquel XR addictive?
Seroquel XR is not considered to be addictive or habit-forming, but it can be habit-forming in some people.
How long does it take for Seroquel XR to start working?
Seroquel XR can take several weeks to begin working effectively, and it may take several weeks or months to see the full benefits of the medication.
Can I stop taking Seroquel XR abruptly?
Do not stop taking Seroquel XR abruptly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the proper way to taper off the medication if you want to stop taking it.
How long can I take Seroquel XR for?
The duration of treatment with Seroquel XR can vary depending on the condition being treated and individual factors such as response to the medication and the presence of side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider about the appropriate duration of treatment.
Resources
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a698019.html
- https://www.rxlist.com/seroquel-drug.htm
- https://www.drugs.com/seroquel.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/022047s011s016s017s019s022lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-148614/seroquel-xr-oral/details
- https://www.seroquelxr.com/
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