Patient handout
Quetiapine (Seroquel)
You have been prescribed quetiapine. This page explains what it is, what to expect, and when to call.
What it is
Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic used for bipolar disorder, both mania and bipolar depression, for schizophrenia, and as an add-on for depression that has not responded to an antidepressant. At low doses it is sometimes used for sleep, though that is off-label. It is sedating, which is helpful at night and a nuisance by day.
How to take it
- Take it at bedtime unless told otherwise. Extended-release (XR) is once a day; immediate-release may be split.
- With or without food. XR should be taken without a large meal.
- If you miss a dose, skip it and take the next one on time. Do not double up.
- Dose changes are made in steps over days to weeks.
What to expect, and when
- First nights: sleep improves quickly. Daytime drowsiness and dizziness are common in the first week or two and usually ease.
- Week 1 to 2: for mania, calming and better sleep often come first.
- Week 2 to 6: for bipolar depression or added to an antidepressant, mood often begins to lift.
- Weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol are checked at the start and periodically, because quetiapine can raise them.
Common side effects
Sleepiness, dizziness when standing, dry mouth, constipation, increased appetite and weight gain, and over time higher blood sugar and cholesterol. Less often, restlessness or stiffness.
Call the office the same day if
- Fainting, or a very fast or irregular heartbeat
- High fever with stiff muscles, confusion, and sweating (a rare emergency called neuroleptic malignant syndrome; call 911)
- Uncontrolled movements of the face, tongue, or limbs
- Extreme thirst, frequent urination, or blurred vision (possible high blood sugar)
- Fever, sore throat, or other signs of infection that do not clear; or a rash, swelling, or trouble breathing (call 911)
Stopping
Do not stop quetiapine suddenly. Stopping abruptly can cause rebound insomnia, nausea, and a return of symptoms. We taper gradually together.
Good to know
- Stand up slowly, especially at night. Do not drive until you know how sleepy it makes you. Avoid alcohol.
- Weigh yourself regularly and keep the lab appointments; early changes are easier to manage.
- Tell other prescribers and your pharmacist, especially about medicines that affect heart rhythm. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, tell us.
Questions about this medication?
Alice Tran Psychiatric Care · 3060 Williams Drive, Suite 300, Fairfax, VA 22031
Call: (703) 791-9099 · Text: (703) 791-9031 · info@alicetrannp.com · alicetrannp.com
This handout is for education and is not a substitute for the instructions you received at your visit. Follow the dose on your prescription label. If anything here differs from what you were told, call the office. In an emergency, call 911. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.