Quetiapine - Atrolak, Biquelle, Seroquel, Sondate, Zaluron

What quetiapine is for

Quetiapine is a medicine called an antipsychotic.

It can be used to:

• treat schizophrenia
• treat or prevent symptoms of bipolar disorder, including low mood (depression) and high mood (mania)

It can also be used, along with other medicines, to treat severe depression.

How to take quetiapine

Quetiapine usually comes as tablets that you swallow. There's also a liquid (oral suspension).

How much you need to take depends on why you're taking it.

You'll usually start on a low dose, which will be increased over the first few days. It may then be adjusted until you find a dose that works for you.

When taking quetiapine:

• take it once or twice a day with or without food – follow your doctor's advice about how and when to take it
• swallow tablets whole with a glass of water (do not split, chew or crush them)
• if you're taking liquid quetiapine, follow the instructions that come with the medicine about how to measure out the right amount

Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.

If you miss a dose of quetiapine

If you forget to take a dose of quetiapine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose.

If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose at the usual time.

Do not take 2 doses to make up for a missed dose.

If you take too much quetiapine

It's important to get medical advice if you take too much quetiapine because it can sometimes be dangerous.

How to stop taking quetiapine

Keep taking quetiapine for as long as your doctor advises you to.

Do not stop taking it suddenly because it may cause withdrawal symptoms.

If your doctor advises you to stop taking it, your dose will usually need to be reduced gradually. Always follow your doctor's advice.

Side effects of quetiapine

Like all medicines, quetiapine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common side effects

Common side effects of quetiapine include:

• dry mouth
• dizziness
• constipation
• a fast heartbeat
• drowsiness, tiredness and problems sleeping
• feeling irritated or agitated
• missed or irregular periods
• shaking, muscle stiffness or difficulty moving
• putting on weight

If you feel sleepy, dizzy or drowsy after taking quetiapine, do not drive, ride a bike or use machinery until you no longer have these symptoms.

Serious side effects

Quetiapine can sometimes cause serious side effects, although most of them are rare.

Possible serious side effects of quetiapine include:

• an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – causing symptoms such as a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash or difficulty breathing
• a severe skin reaction, such as painful blisters or peeling skin (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), or a rash with flu-like symptoms and swollen glands
• a condition called metabolic syndrome – causing symptoms including an increase in fat around your tummy, high blood pressure and an increase in blood sugar
• problems with your liver – causing symptoms such as tiredness, itchy skin and yellowing of the whites of the eyes (jaundice)

Who can and cannot take quetiapine

Most adults can take quetiapine.

It's not usually recommended for children and young people under the age of 18. But children aged 12 to 17 may sometimes be given it under the supervision of a doctor.

Quetiapine is not suitable for everyone. For example, you may not be able to take it if:

• you've had an allergic reaction to quetiapine in the past
• you or someone in your family has a heart condition, such as a heart rhythm problem or a weak heart
• you have certain conditions, such as low blood pressure, a liver problem, or diabetes
• you've had a seizure (fit) in the past
• you have a history of alcohol or drug misuse

Before taking quetiapine, tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions.

Breastfeeding and quetiapine

Tell your doctor if you're breastfeeding.

Quetiapine can be used while breastfeeding but your baby will be regularly checked.

Possible side effects your baby may get if you're taking quetiapine and breastfeeding include:

• irritability
• drowsiness
• not gaining weight as expected

It's rare for breastfed babies to get any side effects of medicines you're using, but speak to a healthcare professional or call NHS 111 if you have any concerns about your baby.

Pregnancy and quetiapine

Tell your doctor if you're pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or you get pregnant while taking quetiapine.

Quetiapine can be used during pregnancy if needed. Your doctor will talk to you about the risks and benefits of taking it while you're pregnant.

If you need to take quetiapine while you're pregnant, your doctor will prescribe the lowest possible effective dose.

Your baby's growth may be checked more often than usual during your pregnancy. You'll also usually be advised to give birth in hospital so you and your baby can be closely monitored after you've given birth.

Find out more about taking quetiapine during pregnancy on the Bumps (Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy) website

Taking quetiapine with other medicines, food and drink

There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with quetiapine including:

• certain medicines used to treat heart conditions
• certain medicines used to treat HIV
• antibiotics, such as erythromycin and clarithromycin
• antifungal medicines, such as clotrimazole and fluconazole
• nefazodone for treating depression

Before taking quetiapine, tell your doctor if you're taking any other medicines, herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.

Food, drink and alcohol with quetiapine

Do not drink grapefruit juice while taking quetiapine.

You can drink alcohol, but it's best not to drink too much because it can make you sleepy.