Generic Seroquel
Quetiapine 25/50/100/200/300mg

Seroquel Information

We rely on our brains for… pretty much everything; and, it does a fairly good job of taking care of us, most of the time (a few bad decisions not included). But certain psychological disorders and disease ruin the brain’s ability to function properly; the chemicals become unbalanced and the result are mental health conditions like schizophrenia and bipolarity.  Medication is needed to bring the minds of the afflicted back in working order and restore some semblance of a normal life. Seroquel is one of those drugs, commonly pair with an antidepressant to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and severe depression.

Prescribed primarily to adults and teenagers, the drug contains an active ingredient called quetiapine. It comes in a slightly different form as well – extended-release – and is sold in that form under the name Seroquel XR, but there are more risks associated with it. For this reason, Seroquel XR is only appropriate for adults. That said, even the regular variety should be used cautiously. Overdosing on the drug is a fatal mistake; and, even if you use it right, you should be aware that side effects for it are somewhat extreme (heart attacks, strokes and death may all occur).  Signs that you are reacting badly (and should visit a doctor immediately) include a shortness of breath, confused, excessive thirst, insatiable hunger and an irregular heartbeat.  Also be aware (especially if you are taking it with an antidepressant) that when many people first start treatment for an antidepressant, they have suicidal tendencies. However, these feelings fade after a few months.

It is worthwhile to note that Seroquel not able to repair all problems of the brain. Indeed, it cannot do anything for one of the most common mental problems – dementia.

All of this may combine to make Seroquel sound like a pretty scary drug; and, you should exercise care and caution if you or someone you love has been prescribed it. There is not a lot of room for error. Nevertheless, many people who use it have expressed joy and relief at having found something that allows them to live a normal life. One man described his life prior to the drug as being full of depression, anxiety and sleepless nights and his life after as being easier and more restful. Another described his mind as being  “clear” and asserted that it helped him wake up from a bought of severe depression. There is no guarantee it will work the same for everyone, but given the severity of conditions with which people suffer before being introduced to the drug it may well be worth the risk. Only you, your family and a qualified doctor should make that decision, however.