Seroquel is an anti-psychotic medication available only by prescription. Seroquel is the trade-name for the generic drug Quetiapine Fumarate.
Seroquel is used in the treatment of schizophrenia to control delusions, hallucinations, thought problems and difficulties connecting with reality. Seroquel may also be prescribed on a short-term basis for the treatment of mania associated with bipolar disorder.
Seroquel dosage amounts vary depending on the patient's condition and response to medication. Some patients find a relatively low dose to be effective, while others will require a much higher dose. To find the appropriate dosage for an individual, the prescribing doctor will start with a low dose and increase gradually until the desired result is achieved.
Dosage for Schizophrenia
Usually, dosages of Seroquel for the treatment of schizophrenia range from between 300 and 400 milligrams per day. This dose is divided into two or three small doses. For some patients, a low dose of 150 mg proves effective; some may exceed 400 mg, but rarely will a prescription be for more than 750 mg daily, and more than 800 mg per day has not been tested for safety. Dosing starts low and increases over a four day period to find the optimal dose. The introductory dosing schedule usually follows this protocol:
" 25 mg twice on day 1
" Gradual daily increase by 25 to 50 mg for days 2-4 (taken in 2 or 3 daily doses)
" Increases by 25-50 mg every 2 days if needed after day 5
Dosage for Bipolar Disorder
Usual dosage of Seroquel for the treatment of bipolar disorder falls between 400 and 800 mg per day. Dosing is metered and increased gradually over a period of 4 to 6 days, similar to dosing for schizophrenia. The usual dosing protocol follows:
" 50 mg taken twice on day 1
" Increase to 100 mg twice on day 2
" Increase to 150 mg twice on day 3
" Increase to 200 mg twice on day 4
" Days 5 and 6 increase if needed incrementally (increments not to exceed 200 mg, and total daily dose not to exceed 800 mg)
Dosing schedules for both schizophrenia and bipolar disorder may be lowered and made more gradual if patients suffer from liver disease and/or side effects.
As safety has not been determined for doses over 800 mg, it is important to take the medication in amounts only as prescribed. Patients should be aware of the signs of overdose in case a mistake is made. Signs of Seroquel overdose include:
" Dizziness, fainting
" Drowsiness, weakness, tiredness
" Fast heartbeat, rapid pulse
If a dose is missed it should be taken as soon as remembered, but not if it is close to the time for the next dose. Doses should never be doubled in an attempt to catch up a missed dose.
Seroquel can interact with other medications and herbal remedies and supplements, so it is important to report all herbal, OTC, and prescribed medications to the patient's doctor. Seroquel can also cause and exacerbate certain medical conditions, and does carry a potential for side effects, so it is necessary to report all conditions (new or previously existing) to the prescribing doctor.
Seroquel should be stored at room temperature (ideally, 77 degrees), and kept away from heat and moisture. It is very important to keep Seroquel away from pets and especially children.
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