What are the Side Effects of Quetiapine?
**Understanding Quetiapine’s Side Effects: What You Need to Know**
Quetiapine (often known by the brand name Seroquel) is a medication used to treat mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. While it can be effective, it also comes with potential side effects that vary in severity. Here’s a breakdown of what you might experience:
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### **Common Side Effects**
Most people taking quetiapine notice mild-to-moderate reactions, including:
– **Drowsiness or fatigue**: A frequent issue for adults and children[1][2].
– **Dizziness or sudden drops in blood pressure**: This can cause lightheadedness when standing up quickly[2].
– **Digestive problems**: Dry mouth, constipation, nausea, vomiting, or upset stomach are common[1][2].
– **Weight gain and increased appetite**: Particularly noticeable in children and adolescents[1][2].
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### **Serious Risks**
While rare, some side effects require immediate medical attention:
– **Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)**: Symptoms include high fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, and irregular heartbeat[3]. This is life-threatening if untreated.
– **Trouble swallowing or muscle spasms**: These could signal severe neurological reactions like acute dystonia (uncontrolled neck/eye movements)[3].
– **Stroke risk in elderly patients with dementia**: Quetiapine may increase this risk significantly[2].
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### **Special Considerations**
– **Pregnancy risks**: Newborns exposed to quetiapine late in pregnancy might experience withdrawal symptoms or movement disorders after birth[1].
– **Drug interactions**: Medications like ketoconazole (for fungal infections) or rifampin (for tuberculosis) can dangerously alter quetiapine levels. Always inform your doctor about other drugs you’re taking[1][3].
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### What Should You Do?
If you experience persistent dizziness, rapid weight gain, or signs of NMS (e.g., high fever), contact your healthcare provider immediately. Never stop taking quetiapine suddenly—this can worsen insomnia or nausea[2][3]. Your doctor may adjust your dose gradually to minimize withdrawal effects.
By staying informed and monitoring symptoms closely, you can work with your healthcare team to balance the benefits of quetiapine against its risks effectively.
