Why is Seroquel prescribed?

Seroquel is prescribed for the treatment of schizophrenia, a mental disorder marked by delusions (false beliefs), hallucinations, disrupted thinking, and loss of contact with reality. It is also used for the short-term treatment of mania associated with bipolar disorder.

Seroquel is the first in a new class of antipsychotic medications. Researchers believe that it works by diminishing the action of dopamine and serotonin, two of the brain's chief chemical messengers.

Why should Seroquel (Quetiapine) not be prescribed?

If Seroquel (Quetiapine) gives you an allergic reaction, you will not be able to use this drug.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Seroquel (Quetiapine)

Seroquel (Quetiapine) increases the effects of alcohol. Avoid alcoholic beverages while on Seroquel therapy.

If Seroquel (Quetiapine) is taken with certain other drugs, decreased, the effects of either could be increased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Seroquel with the following:

Barbiturates such as Ery-Tab)
Fluconazole (Diflucan)
Itraconazole (Sporanox)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Levodopa (Laradopa, Sinemet)
Lorazepam (Ativan)
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Rifampin (Rifadin, Rifamate, phenobarbital
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Erythromycin (Eryc, Rimactane)
Steroid medications

Special warnings about Seroquel (Quetiapine)

Call your doctor immediately if you develop muscle stiffness, excessive sweating, irregular or rapid heartbeat, confusion, and high fever. These are signs of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), a serious--and potentially fatal--reaction to the drug. Be especially wary if you have a history of heart attack, circulation problems, heart failure, heart disease, or irregular heartbeat.

Particularly during the first few days of therapy, fainting, with accompanying dizziness, Seroquel (Quetiapine) can cause low blood pressure, and rapid heartbeat. To minimize these effects, your doctor will increase your dose gradually. If you are prone to low blood pressure, take blood pressure medication, or become dehydrated, use Seroquel with caution.

Most important fact about Seroquel (Quetiapine)

Seroquel (Quetiapine) may cause tardive dyskinesia, a condition characterized by uncontrollable muscle spasms and twitches in the face and body. This problem can be permanent, and appears to be most common among older adults, especially women.