Seroquel

Uses
Seroquel (Quetiapine Fumarate) is primarily used to treat either schizophrenia, manic episodes of bipolar disorder or depressive episodes in patients who are affected by bipolar disorder. When used as a treatment for bipolar patients, it can help to treat mania (feeling unusually excited), mixed feelings and depression on a short term basis, and may also be used alongside other medicines as a maintenance treatment for this condition.

Patients suffering from schizophrenia may be prescribed this medicine to treat delusions, hallucinations, speech disorganization, catatonic behaviour, a lack of emotion and other symptoms of this condition. This medicine is an atypical antipsychotic, and it works on certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, and helps to restore the natural balance of these substances.

Dosage and Administration
Seroquel (Quetiapine Fumarate) comes as 100mg tablets, which may be taken with or without food. The exact dosage you need to take can vary, and your doctor will decide, based on the condition you are treating. Adults who are being treated for schizophrenia may be told to take 25mg, twice per day on the first day of treatment. On days 2 and 3 of treatment, the doctor may decide to increase the dosage in 25mg to 50mg increments (divided 2 to 3 times), and a dosage ranging from 300mg to 400mg may be prescribed by day 4 of treatment.

After this, more changes to the dosage regimen may be made (again in 25mg to 50mg increments twice per day), at intervals of no less than 2 days. The maximum dosage that a doctor will prescribe is usually 750mg per day. Treatment of bipolar disorder or depression may require a different dosage, and patients must follow any instructions that their doctor gives them.

Side effects
Taking Seroquel (Quetiapine Fumarate) as a treatment for any of the conditions it is indicated for may result in side effects, such as:

• Breast discharge
• A lower than normal sexual desire
• Swelling or pain in the stomach
• Eating more than before and possible weight gain
• Speech, coordination or concentration difficulties

Tell your doctor if you experience any side effects during treatment. You will need medical care straight away if you notice blisters, a prolonged penis erection that is painful, seizures, bruising, visual changes or any other signs of a serious reaction.

Precautions
Treatment of Alzheimer's disease with this drug may not be effective.

There is a possibility that hyperglycaemia may occur in some patients treated with this medication.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Seroquel (Quetiapine Fumarate) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.