What is quetiapine

Quetiapine is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (depressive and manic episodes) either by itself or in combination with other medications. Major depressive disorder is also treated with quetiapine extended-release tablets in combination with other antidepressants.

           What advantages does this medication offers

If you have bipolar disorder, it can help you avoid mania and depression. It is an antipsychotic medication that acts by altering dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. Although it doesn’t treat your illness, it can alleviate its symptoms.

                    What time is ideal for taking quetiapine

They can be taken with or without meals. When using slow-release tablets, swallow them whole and sip water without eating. The tablets should ideally be taken at least one hour before and two hours after meals. The tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or broken.

                            Does quetiapine start working right away

Seroquel takes time to start working. Some symptoms may not get better for days or even weeks. It may take a few weeks to get to the right dose for you. When you start taking it, give it time to start working properly.

                                              What occurs if quetiapine is stopped

Sleep disturbances and insomnia, paresthesia (burning or prickling sensations), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, lightheadedness, hypertension (high blood pressure), an elevated heart rate, excitement, anxiety, perspiration, anorexia, and myalgia are some of the symptoms that might accompany quitting quetiapine.

                                        When using quetiapine, what should I avoid

Carbamazepine (Tegretol), rifampin (Rifadin), Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir / ritonavir), St. John’s wort, alcohol, and grapefruit juice are a few examples of drugs and substances that might interact with seroquel. And these are only a handful of instances.

                                         How much time does quetiapine remain in your body

Given its about 7-hour half-life, seroquel usually remains in your bloodstream for 35 hours. However, hair samples may show remnants for as long as six months.