Is Quetiapine Abused for Its Sedative Effects?

**Is Quetiapine Abused for Its Sedative Effects?**

Quetiapine (often sold under the brand name Seroquel) is a medication primarily used to treat mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and sometimes major depressive disorder. While it’s not classified as a traditional sedative or tranquilizer, its strong calming effects have led to concerns about misuse. Here’s what you need to know:

### **How Quetiapine Works**
Quetiapine belongs to a class of drugs called atypical antipsychotics. It works by blocking receptors in the brain for neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which helps regulate mood and behavior[4]. A key side effect is sedation—many users report feeling drowsy or relaxed shortly after taking it[4][5]. This effect has made it attractive for off-label use or abuse by people seeking relief from anxiety, insomnia, or even recreational “downers.”

### **Is It Actually Abused?**
Yes—though less commonly than benzodiazepines (like Xanax), quetiapine is sometimes misused for its sedative properties. People might:
– **Crush pills** to snort or inject them for faster effects (though this is dangerous).
– **Take higher doses than prescribed** to amplify sedation.
– **Use it without a prescription**, often obtaining it illegally[2][3].

Withdrawal symptoms can occur if use stops abruptly, including nausea, insomnia, irritability, and rebound anxiety[2], suggesting physical dependence can develop with prolonged misuse.

### **Risks of Misuse**
– **Over-sedation**: Extreme drowsiness increases risks of accidents or falls[5].
– **Heart issues**: High doses may cause irregular heart rhythms[5].
– **Mental health complications**: Long-term misuse can worsen underlying conditions like depression or psychosis[4][5].

### **Why Do People Abuse It?**
Some turn to quetiapine because they believe prescription drugs are “safer” than street drugs—but this isn’t true when used improperly. Others use it alongside stimulants (like cocaine) to counteract agitation during comedowns[3], creating a dangerous cycle of polydrug abuse.

### **The Bottom Line**
While quetiapine isn’t as widely abused as opioids or benzos, its sedative effects pose real risks when misused. Always take medications exactly as prescribed and discuss side effects openly with your doctor—especially if you feel tempted to increase your dose independently[2][5]. If you suspect someone is abusing quetiapine, encourage them to seek help through resources like SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357)[1].