Quetiapine

Quetiapine affects neurotransmitters involved in mood and sleep and may be prescribed for specific psychiatric symptoms under clinical care.

Quetiapine is an antipsychotic medicine used for particular psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Someone in addiction care may also need treatment for one of those conditions. Its use does not by itself establish a permanent diagnosis.

Quetiapine can cause sleepiness, but that does not make it a routine sleep medicine for recovery or a proven treatment for alcohol dependence. Using it mainly for insomnia is different from treating a psychiatric illness that also affects sleep. Even a small prescribed amount can have unwanted effects.

New severe restlessness, involuntary movements, marked dizziness or fainting needs prompt clinical review. High fever with severe stiffness and altered awareness, breathing difficulty, a seizure or collapse needs emergency medical help. A severe rash or rash with fever and feeling very unwell needs urgent medical assessment. Sudden confusion needs immediate medical help. New suicidal thoughts need prompt medical help, with emergency help if there is a risk of acting on them.

Weight, blood sugar and blood fats can change, sometimes without obvious symptoms. Other medicines and substances can add risks. Do not independently increase, share or abruptly stop quetiapine; discuss benefit, side effects and any change plan with the care team. Serious new symptoms require urgent assessment.

Full access is needed to read this Topic's articles.