Seroquel XR (Quetiapine Fumarate SR)

Do’s

• Take Seroquel XR by mouth, as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily in the evening.
• Take it with or without food, but a light meal is recommended.
• Take it consistently at the same time each day for the best results.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including prescriptions, non-prescription, and herbal products.
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully regarding dosage and duration of use.
• Continue taking Seroquel XR even if you feel well. Don't stop it without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Don'ts

• Don't increase your dose or take Seroquel XR more often or for longer than prescribed.
• Don't abruptly stop taking Seroquel XR. Your healthcare provider will help you taper off gradually if needed.
• Do not crush or chew them. Swallow the tablets whole. 

Common side effects:

• Chills
• Cold sweats
• Confusion
• Dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
• Sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
• Black, tarry stools
• Blurred vision
• Changes in patterns and rhythms of speech
• Chest pain
• Cough
• Drooling
• Fever
• Inability to move the eyes
• Inability to sit still
• Increased blinking or spasms of the eyelid
• Lip smacking or puckering
• Loss of balance control
• Mask-like face
• Muscle aches
• Need to keep moving
• Painful or difficult urination
• Puffing of the cheeks
• Rapid or worm-like movements of the tongue
• Restlessness
• Nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop
• Constipation with abdominal pain that doesn't go away
• Restlessness/constant need to move
• Shaking (tremor)
• Mental/mood changes (such as increased anxiety, depression, thoughts of suicide)
• Difficulty swallowing
• Loss of appetite
• Yellowing eyes/skin
• Interrupted breathing during sleep
• Trouble urinating
• Somnolence
• Dry mouth
• Sedation

Common side effects:

• Headache
• Nasal congestion
• Bronchitis
• Throat irritation
• Runny nose
• Flu-like symptoms
• Musculoskeletal pain
• Cough
• Respiratory infection

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop
• Constipation with abdominal pain that doesn't go away
• Restlessness/constant need to move
• Shaking (tremor)
• Mental/mood changes (such as increased anxiety, depression, thoughts of suicide)
• Difficulty swallowing
• Loss of appetite
• Yellowing eyes/skin
• Interrupted breathing during sleep
• Trouble urinating
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a very serious condition)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking seroquel xr,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about any allergies you have before taking Seroquel XR, including allergies to quetiapine or any inactive ingredients.

Inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially if you have any of the following conditions:

• Eye cataracts
• Liver disease
• Low white blood cell count
• Seizure disorder
• Trouble swallowing
• Thyroid problems
• Digestive problems (blockage, slow movement)
• Diabetes (personal or family history)
• Substance abuse problems (personal or family history)
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol/triglycerides
• Sleep apnea
• Difficulty urinating

Seroquel XR may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you know how the medication affects you. Don't drink alcohol or use marijuana while taking Seroquel XR.

Seroquel XR may cause irregular heartbeat (QT prolongation). This can be serious and requires immediate medical attention.

The risk of QT prolongation is increased by certain medical conditions and medications. Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take and if you have any of these conditions:

• Certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation)
• Family history of heart problems (QT prolongation, sudden cardiac death)
• Low blood potassium or magnesium levels

Seroquel XR may increase your risk of heat stroke. Avoid overheating and take precautions in hot weather.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take before having surgery.

Children and older adults may be more sensitive to side effects of Seroquel XR, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and QT prolongation. This can increase the risk of falling in older adults.

Seroquel XR should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Babies born to mothers who take Seroquel XR late in pregnancy may experience withdrawal symptoms.

Seroquel XR passes into breast milk and may affect your baby. Consult with your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

There may be an increased risk of serious side effects in older adults with dementia who take Seroquel XR. This medication is not approved for dementia treatment. Discuss all treatment options with your healthcare provider.

Seroquel XR may increase suicidal thoughts in some people, especially young adults. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you experience worsening depression, unusual behavior changes, or other mental/mood changes.

Seroquel XR is not approved for use in children under 10 years old.