Quetiapine
Quetiapine XR
Quetiapine XR is an extended-release antipsychotic medication used to manage severe mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. It stabilizes mood, reduces psychotic symptoms, and improves overall mental functioning. Quetiapine XR offers consistent medication levels throughout the day, is generally well-tolerated, and provides flexible dosing options tailored to individual needs. It may also improve sleep patterns and reduce hospitalization risks for patients with severe mental disorders.
Product Overview
Quetiapine XR, an extended-release formulation of Quetiapine, is primarily prescribed for the treatment of several psychiatric disorders including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. It operates by modulating neurotransmitter activity in the brain, notably affecting serotonin and dopamine pathways to help stabilize mood swings and alleviate symptoms of psychosis such as hallucinations and delusions.
This formulation is designed for once-daily dosing, ensuring more stable and sustained levels of medication in the body, which aids in maintaining consistent therapeutic effects over time. The medication is effective in both adult and adolescent populations, helping to improve cognitive function, quality of life, and overall mental health.
Quetiapine XR is also noted for its ability to potentially enhance sleep quality and reduce anxiety symptoms associated with these mental health conditions. Despite its benefits, it carries important FDA warnings about increased risks of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis and the potential for suicidal thoughts in younger populations.
What Are the Uses of Quetiapine XR?
- Mania with bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Depression with bipolar disorder
- Major depressive disorder
What Are the Benefits of Quetiapine XR?
- Effectively treats symptoms of schizophrenia by helping to manage hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.
- Provides relief for bipolar disorder by stabilizing mood and reducing the frequency of manic and depressive episodes.
- Can be used as an adjunct treatment for major depressive disorder, particularly when other antidepressants have not been effective.
- Offers extended-release formulation, providing more consistent medication levels throughout the day.
- May help reduce anxiety symptoms associated with various mental health disorders.
- Can be used in both adult and adolescent populations for certain mental health conditions.
- Potentially helps improve sleep patterns for individuals with mental health disorders.
- Provides flexibility in dosing, allowing for personalized treatment plans.
- May help reduce the risk of hospitalization for individuals with severe mental health conditions.
What Are the Side Effects of Quetiapine XR?
Common Quetiapine XR side effects may include:
- Weight gain
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Nausea
- Increased appetite
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness and sedation
[Note: This list is not exhaustive, if you notice any other symptoms that are not mentioned above, consult your doctor immediately.]
What Are the Forms & Strengths of Quetiapine XR?
It comes in the oral tablet, extended-release form and is available in the following strengths:
- 150 mg
- 50 mg
- 200 mg
- 300 mg
What Is the Typical Dosage of Quetiapine XR?
Dosage for Treatment of Depression with Bipolar Disorder
- Adults: Start with 50 mg daily in the evening; the maximum dose is 300 mg daily.
- Pediatric Patients: Dosage to be determined by the doctor.
Dosage for Treatment of Mania with Bipolar Disorder
- Adults: Begin with 300 mg daily in the evening; can increase up to 800 mg daily.
- Children and Adolescents (10-17 years): Start with 50 mg daily in the evening; up to 600 mg daily as the maximum.
- Children Under 10 Years: Doctor will determine the dosage.
Dosage for Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder
- Adults: The initial dose is 50 mg daily in the evening; the maximum is 300 mg daily.
- Pediatric Patients: Dosage specifics are to be set by the doctor.
Dosage for the Treatment of Schizophrenia
- Adults: Start at 300 mg daily in the evening; the maximum dose is 800 mg daily.
- Adolescents (13-17 years): Initial dose is 50 mg daily in the evening; may increase up to 800 mg daily.
- Children Under 13 Years: Doctor will set the dosage.
How to Take Quetiapine XR?
- Take Quetiapine XR orally as directed by your doctor. Do not alter the dose or frequency unless advised.
- For best absorption, take the medication at least one hour before or two hours after meals.
- Your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it to minimize side effects.
- To ensure effectiveness, take the medication at the same time each day. This also helps in remembering to take it.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break it.
- Continue taking the medication even if you feel well. Stopping suddenly can worsen your condition and cause withdrawal symptoms.
- Always consult your doctor if you need to stop taking Quetiapine XR so it can be done safely.
- Regularly inform your doctor about your condition and any new or worsening symptoms.
What to Do When You Miss a Dose of Quetiapine XR?
- Take a missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
[Note: Do not take two doses of Quetiapine XR at the same time to compensate for a missed dose. This can increase your risk of experiencing side effects.]
What Happens When You Overdose on Quetiapine XR?
Overdosing on Quetiapine XR can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately by calling 911, contacting a poison control center, or visiting an emergency room.
[Note: If you notice you have taken too much medication, call your local emergency number immediately.]
How Does Quetiapine XR Work?
Quetiapine XR works as an atypical antipsychotic by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, mainly serotonin and dopamine. It stabilizes mood and reduces psychotic symptoms.
What Are the Important Safety Precautions of Quetiapine XR?
- FDA Boxed Warnings: Increased risk of death in elderly with dementia-related psychosis; not approved for such patients. Risk of suicidal thoughts in children, adolescents, and young adults. Significant metabolic changes like hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and weight gain.
- General Precautions: Avoid if allergic to Quetiapine or any inactive ingredients. Disclose complete medical history, particularly bipolar disorder or suicidal attempts. Monitor closely for increased suicide risk or worsening symptoms.
- Usage Cautions: May cause vision changes, drowsiness, or impaired motor control; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until effects are known. Watch for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome or tardive dyskinesia.
- Adverse Effects: Can raise blood sugar levels and cause QT prolongation; monitor heart rhythm and blood sugar. May increase infection risk by lowering white blood cell count.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor if pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding as it can affect the fetus or infant.
- Stopping Medication: Do not stop abruptly; taper off under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
How Do You Store Quetiapine XR?
- Store Quetiapine XR in a closed container at room temperature
- Keep it away from excess heat, moisture, & direct sunlight.
What Drugs Interact with Quetiapine XR?
Below are the interactions of Quetiapine XR with Drugs:
- Quinidine
- Amlodipine
- Metoprolol
- Ketoconazole
- Lisinopril
- Anticholinergic drugs
- Haloperidol
- Antidepressants
- Anticonvulsants
- Other antipsychotics
- St. John’s Wort
- Erythromycin
- Procainamide
- Rifampin
- Ritonavir
- Antihistamines
- Itraconazole
- Sotalol
- Nefazodone
- Amiodarone
- Phenytoin
- Antibiotics
- Fluconazole
- Levodopa and dopamine agonists
- HIV Medications
- Antiarrhythmics
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- Barbiturates
- Clarithromycin
- Azole antifungals
- Moxifloxacin
- Phenobarbital
- Carbamazepine
Other Interactions to Quetiapine XR
- Beverages such as caffeine, alcohol, & energy drinks
- Supplements such as St. John’s wort, melatonin, vitamin B12, & vitamin B6
- Probiotics
- Herbs such as valerian root, ginkgo biloba, & kava kava
- Food items such as grapefruit & high-fat meals
[Note: This list of interactions isn’t complete. Talk to your doctor if you notice any interaction with food, over-the-counter drugs, prescriptions or supplements.]
What Are the Quetiapine XR Alternatives?
- Viibryd (vilazodone)
- Abilify (aripiprazole)
- Lamictal (lamotrigine)
- Risperdal (risperidone)
- Lexapro (escitalopram)
- Wellbutrin (bupropion)
- Zyprexa (olanzapine)
- Effexor XR (venlafaxine)
- Depakene (valproic acid)
- Fetzima (levomilnacipran)
- Rexulti (brexpiprazole)
- Lithium (lithium carbonate)
- Geodon (ziprasidone)
- Cymbalta (duloxetine)
- Abilify (aripiprazole)
- Vistaril (hydroxyzine)
- Latuda (lurasidone)
- Trintellix (vortioxetine)
- Vraylar (cariprazine)
- Buspar (buspirone)
- Paxil (paroxetine)
- Invega (paliperidone)
[Note: Your healthcare provider will choose which Quetiapine XR alternative is best for you. Taking or consuming them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Quetiapine XR Cost & Coupons
Quetiapine XR, prescribed for certain mental health conditions, can be quite costly in the U.S., especially without insurance. Arctic Meds helps by providing you medications at very low prices when you buy Quetiapine XR online from Canada. Utilize the Quetiapine XR coupon code “ARCTIC10” to receive an extra 10% off your initial purchase. Joining our referral program can further reduce your costs, offering savings of up to $200 on your ongoing medication needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is quetiapine XR a slow release?
Yes, quetiapine XR stands for “extended release,” which is a slow-release formulation designed to allow the medication to be released slowly over time for long-lasting effects.
How long does it take for quetiapine XR to work?
Quetiapine XR doesn’t work immediately. It may take several days to weeks to notice improvements in symptoms. It’s important to allow some time for the medication to reach the optimal dose for effective treatment.
How does Seroquel XR make you feel?
For adults between the ages of 18 and 60 without other medications or medical conditions, common side effects include confusion, headaches, drowsiness, agitation, constipation, weight gain, dry mouth, and blurred vision.
When should quetiapine XR be taken?
It’s best to take quetiapine XR tablets in the evening. These tablets should be swallowed whole without chewing, crushing, or splitting to ensure proper slow release of the medication.
Can you take quetiapine XR twice a day?
Quetiapine XR is generally taken once daily since it’s a slow-release formula. For immediate-release tablets, the dose might be split between morning and evening.
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