Potential Consequences of Seroquel: Understanding Adverse Reactions and Mitigation Strategies
Seroquel, a popular atypical antipsychotic medication, is used to treat schizophrenia in children aged 13 and above, and mania related to bipolar disorder in children aged 10 and above [1]. Its generic form, quetiapine, is also available as an extended-release oral tablet called Seroquel XR.
Both Seroquel and Seroquel XR share common side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, headache, sleepiness, and weight gain [1][3]. However, Seroquel XR may cause orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing) less frequently [3].
In clinical trials, large increases in blood pressure were reported in children taking Seroquel, which wasn't observed in adults [1]. On the other hand, certain side effects were more commonly reported in clinical trials of Seroquel, such as abdominal pain, weakness, and orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when sitting up or standing) [1]. Conversely, clinical trials of Seroquel XR showed nasal congestion, slowed or slurred speech, and increased appetite as more common side effects [1].
Rare but serious side effects, such as prolonged QT interval, cardiac arrhythmias, agranulocytosis, pancreatitis, and suicidal ideation, have been reported with quetiapine (both forms), though these occur at a very low frequency (<1%) [1]. Other less common adverse reactions with quetiapine generally include fever, nightmares, peripheral edema, dyspnea, and palpitations [5].
It is essential to note that no major new types of side effects appear unique to Seroquel XR compared to Seroquel IR according to the summaries from clinical trials. The extended-release version may offer improved tolerability and compliance by reducing peaks and troughs in side effect intensity due to its pharmacokinetic properties [2][3].
When taking Seroquel, side effects such as dry mouth can be worsened by alcohol consumption. Your doctor may suggest limiting or avoiding alcohol during treatment [1]. Additionally, it may be safest to avoid driving until you know how Seroquel may affect you [1].
For more information about the side effects of Seroquel versus Seroquel XR, talk with your doctor or pharmacist [1]. If you experience mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your doctor right away. For serious symptoms, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number [1].
References:
[1] Drugs.com. (n.d.). Seroquel XR. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/sfx/seroquel-xr-side-effects.html
[2] RxList. (n.d.). Seroquel XR. Retrieved from https://www.rxlist.com/seroquel-xr-side-effects-drug-center.htm
[3] Mayo Clinic. (2021, February 3). Seroquel. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/seroquel-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20064948
[4] FDA. (n.d.). Seroquel. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/021418s039lbl.pdf
[5] Medscape. (n.d.). Quetiapine Fumarate. Retrieved from https://reference.medscape.com/drug/quetiapine-fumarate-seroquel-343480
- Some medical-health conditions like hepatitis, diabetes, arthritis, COPD, and psoriasis are not related to the usage of Seroquel or Seroquel XR, but they are important health-and-wellness issues that should be managed accordingly.
- Anthrax, a complex bacterial infection, and migraines, a type of headache, are different from the side effects associated with Seroquel and Seroquel XR.
- Ulcerative colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease, and suicidal ideation, a severe mental-health concern, are not commonly reported side effects of quetiapine.
- Obesity, while a relevant health issue, is not typically caused by Seroquel or Seroquel XR, but weight gain is a common side effect.
- The predictive role of Seroquel in treating or preventing conditions like hepatitis AQ or psoriatic arthritis has not been established in clinical trials or scientific research.
- Science continues to explored the effects of Seroql and Seroquel XR on various health conditions, but their primary usage remains in the treatment of schizophrenia and mania related to bipolar disorder.
- While Seroquel and Seroquel XR may cause side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, and weight gain, they are not known to cause conditions like ulcerative colitis or migraines.
- While eating alcohol can worsen certain side effects like dry mouth while taking Seroquel, mental-health conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder are not directly linked to alcohol consumption.
- In cases of rare but serious side effects such as prolonged QT interval, cardiac arrhythmias, agranulocytosis, pancreatitis, and suicidal ideation, immediate medical attention should be sought, regardless of any other health-and-wellness concerns like diabetes, arthritis, or migraines.
