Quetiapine Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (kweh-TIE-ah-peen)
Quetiapine Oral Uses
This medication is used with or without other medications to treat certain mental/mood conditions (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia). Quetiapine is known as an anti-psychotic drug (atypical type). It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
This medication can decrease hallucinations and improve your concentration. It helps you to think more clearly and positively about yourself, feel less nervous, and take a more active part in everyday life. Quetiapine can help prevent severe mood swings or decrease how often mood swings occur.
How To Use Quetiapine Oral
Read the Medication Guide available from your pharmacist before you start using quetiapine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 2 or 3 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Your doctor will start you at a low dose and gradually increase the dose to reduce the dizziness and lightheadedness that may occur when you first start to take this drug. It may take several weeks to notice the full benefit of this drug.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. If you stop taking quetiapine for more than one week, notify your doctor. If you restart the drug, you may need to start at a low dose and gradually increase the dose again.
Continue taking this medication exactly as prescribed, even if you are feeling better and thinking more clearly. Do not stop taking this medication without first consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
Limit the amount of grapefruit or grapefruit juice you may eat or drink while being treated with this medication unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Grapefruit may increase the amount of certain medications in your blood stream. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
