SearchWhat Is Seroquel?
Seroquel is the brand name of the prescription drug quetiapine. This drug is available in brand-name and generic versions and has immediate-release and extended-release options. The brand name for the extended-release option is Seroquel XR. Both options usually come in the form of an oral tablet.
When an individual takes this atypical antipsychotic, the chemical activity in their brain is altered. Seroquel releases serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which improves symptoms in individuals with various mental health disorders.
Why People Use Seroquel
Does Seroquel Get You High?
If Seroquel is misused, it can cause someone to feel an intense and potentially dangerous high. Abusing Seroquel to improve mood, increase pleasure, or reduce anxiety may result in unpleasant or even fatal side effects. When misused, Seroquel overdoses are possible and may include symptoms like drowsiness/sleepiness, increased heartbeat, dizziness, and fainting.
This prescription drug comes with a high risk of addiction , especially when combined with other medications and drugs. Some individuals who misuse Seroquel may mix it with cocaine , for example. Chances of addiction and dependence also increase when someone snorts or injects Seroquel instead of taking it as an oral tablet. When Seroquel is snorted, it enters the bloodstream more quickly, resulting it an intense high and can lead to a Seroquel overdose.
Side Effects of Seroquel
Seroquel, when misused, comes with complications. It’s still important to be careful when using Seroquel as prescribed, including the Seroquel dosage, while also considering the potential symptoms and risks that come with regular use.
Side effects of Seroquel may include:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Increased appetite
- Weight gain
- nausea/vomiting
- Sore throat
- Rapid heartbeat
- Weakness
- Trouble moving
Not only can this prescription drug potentially cause undesirable symptoms, but it can also have long-lasting side effects.
Risks of Seroquel Use
Individual risks of taking Seroquel vary from person to person based on their mental health condition, their age, etc., however, some possible risks to consider include:
- Suicidal thoughts/actions
- Increased cholesterol
- High blood sugar
- Low white blood cell count
- Cataracts
- Seizures
- Changes in thyroid levels
- Metabolism changes
- Stroke
- Allergies
- Tremors
Although Seroquel does come with its possible dangers and risks, it’s usually harmless if used as prescribed and responsibly. If you experience any of the issues above while using Seroquel, it’s vital to talk to your doctor to discuss the best next steps.
Responsible Use of Seroquel
Seroquel can interact with other medications. For example, it shouldn’t be combined with anti-arrhythmic drugs, certain antibiotics, antipsychotic drugs, alcohol, or methadone. When mixed with specific drugs, the side effects may increase and become more intense. These drugs include benzodiazepines , muscle relaxants, certain pain medications, antihistamines, and sedatives.
If addiction occurs, residential addiction treatment, like the one we offer at Silver Pines, is likely the best solution. . Our residential addiction treatment program begins with detoxing, allowing individuals to experience the effects in Seroquel withdrawal in a comfortable and healthy environment. Due to the dangers of Seroquel withdrawal, it’s important to speak with your doctor if you’re thinking of stopping the drug.
If you have any questions about the effects of Seroquel and other prescription drugs and if you need to enter a drug detox program , like the one we offer at Silver Pines, call us today at 267.719.8689 .
