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Quetiapine - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Quetiapine

Generic Name : Quetiapine
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Quetiapine are provided here.

Pronunciation : kwe tye' a peen

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Quetiapine, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y49.5 Therapeutic Classification : Psychotherapeutics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Quetiapine

India :

International :


Seroquel

Why is Quetiapine Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an atypical antipsychotic, prescribed for treating schizophrenia i.e. a disorder with includes symptoms like 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 excited moods and depressed moods of bipolar disorder. It works by changing the activity of certain natural substances in the brain.

When should Quetiapine not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with severe Central Nervous System depression, bone marrow suppression, coma, and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Quetiapine?

Adult- PO- Starting dose is 25 to 50 mg twice a day, may be increased to a maximum of 750 to 800 mg per day.

How should Quetiapine be taken?

It comes as tablet to take by mouth 1 to 3 times/day, and extended-release tablet 1time/day, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Quetiapine?

•It may increase in your blood sugar while you are taking this medication, even if you do not already have diabetes. Monitor sugar level, especially in diabetics, signs of clinical worsening, suicidality or unusual changes in behavior.

Caution should be exercised in patients with history of seizures; neuroleptic malignant syndrome; involuntary movements, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause kidney or liver damage.

Gradual withdrawal is recommended.

It may make it harder for your body to cool down when it gets very hot. While taking this medication, you should avoid excessive exercise, stay inside as much as possible and dress lightly in hot weather, stay out of the sun, and drink plenty of fluids.

It may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting when you get up too quickly from a lying position. Get up slowly from bed.

What are the side effects of Quetiapine?

Central Nervous System- Headache, generalized weakness, Drowsiness, restlessness, Dizziness. Fatigue Tremor Abnormal movements, suicidal tendencies.
Gastrointestinal- Dry mouth, Constipation, Impaired digestion, abdominal pain.
Metabolic- Weight Gain, elevations in serum transaminase level, increased appetite, Peripheral edema, increase in blood glucose.
Heart- Increased heart rate, palpitations, postural and orthostatic hypotension.
Eye and ENT- Nasal congestion, blurred vision.
Skin- Sweating, skin rash, eruption.
Respiratory- Upper respiratory tract infection, cough, difficult breathing.
Blood- Reduction in white blood cells.
Miscellaneous- Fever, decrease in thyroid hormone levels, flu syndrome, increase in blood cholesterol.

What are the other precautions for Quetiapine?

Do not change the dosage without consult with your doctor.

What are the storage conditions for Quetiapine?

Oral: Store at 25°C. Store it in an airtight container and keep away from children.
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