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Overview
Quetiapine is a medicine used for some mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It can help with symptoms like hallucinations, strong suspiciousness, disorganised thinking, or major mood changes. It comes as regular tablets and extended-release tablets.Ibrahim's pharmacy advice
I often explain it like this: Quetiapine can help the brain become calmer, and some people also sleep better. But especially at the beginning, it can make you very sleepy or dizzy. If it is an extended-release tablet, it should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. The most important thing is to follow the dose increase plan and not stop suddenly without advice.
Use
- Quetiapine is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
- It can help with symptoms such as hallucinations, strong suspiciousness, disorganised thinking, and major mood changes.
- In some people, it is also used in other situations based on medical assessment.
Dosage and Ibrahim's advice
- The dose is decided by your doctor and is often increased gradually at the start.
- Regular tablets can be taken with or without food.
- Extended-release tablets are usually taken without food, at least 1 hour before a meal, and should not be chewed, crushed, or split.
- Do not change the dose on your own.
Side effects
- Common side effects may include sleepiness, tiredness, or dizziness.
- Some people may get increased appetite or weight gain.
- Constipation, headache, or dry mouth can also happen.
Drug interactions
- Quetiapine can interact with other medicines, especially medicines that also cause drowsiness or affect the brain.
- Some medicines may change how quetiapine is processed in the body.
- Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you use.
Important warnings
- This medicine can make you sleepy or dizzy, so be careful with driving and machinery.
- In some people, blood sugar and weight may increase, so medical follow-up may be needed.
- Do not stop treatment suddenly without speaking to your doctor.
- Seek medical advice if you get palpitations, fainting, or other serious new symptoms.
Ramadan and fasting
- Oral tablets break the fast if taken during the daytime.
- Talk to your doctor before Ramadan to make a safe plan for dose timing.
- Do not change the dose or timing on your own.
Food and drink
- Regular tablets can be taken with or without food.
- Extended-release tablets are usually taken on an empty stomach.
- If your appetite increases, healthy eating and activity may help reduce weight gain.
Storage
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Keep in the original packaging as instructed.
- Do not use after the expiry date.
- Return leftovers to the pharmacy.
Sources
This text is written in a personal and simple style, but the medical information is based on official sources.