Quetiapine

About quetiapine

Quetiapine works by acting on chemical transmitters in the brain.

It is used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia such as hearing, seeing or sensing things that are not real, mistaken beliefs and thoughts, and problems dealing with other people. It is also used to control the 'highs' (excited moods) and 'lows' (depressed moods) of bipolar disorder.

Before taking quetiapine

Before taking quetiapine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have heart or circulation problems.
• If you have ever had epilepsy.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you suffer from hypotension (low blood pressure).
• If you have had a stroke.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take quetiapine

• Take quetiapine exactly as your doctor has told you.
• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Try to take quetiapine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose in which case skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.
• If you are taking the modified release tablets (known as Seroquel® XL), take your dose at least one hour before a meal. Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water without chewing or crushing it. Do not drink grapefruit juice while you are taking these tablets.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be checked.
• Quetiapine may slow your reactions and make you drowsy. If this happens do not drive.
• Alcohol will increase the drowsiness you feel, so do not drink alcohol.
• Quetiapine tablets come in different sizes and colours. If your dose is changed your tablets may look different. If you are unsure about your tablets at any time, ask your pharmacist.
• Do not stop taking quetiapine without speaking to your doctor first. Your doctor will probably want to reduce the dose you are taking gradually, as stopping treatment suddenly can cause problems.
• If you are taking quetiapine for depression in bipolar disorder and you are having thoughts about harming yourself or having any suicidal thoughts, it is important that you talk to your doctor straight away.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with quetiapine.
• If you are diabetic, you may need to monitor your blood glucose levels more frequently. Your doctor will be able to advise you about this.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.

Can quetiapine cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

• 'flu-like' symptoms such as sweating, stiff muscles, a high temperature, paleness and a fast heartbeat,
• fever, persistent sore throat or mouth ulcers,
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes).

How to store quetiapine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines