My Account of Taking Seroquel and the Side Effects I Experienced

Seroquel side effects can be quite serious but are generally mild. I have dry mouth, and an increased appetite - especially chocolate. I do get headaches, but I have always had those. I have a decreased sexual drive. I am also drowsy from Seroquel.

The main thing that is a concern is the tolerance factor. If you are on a certain amount, then after a certain period of time, you will need more Seroquel to get the same effect. It is usually started off in a minimum amount and only increased if there is no effect.

I was dosed too strong the first time; I was put on Seroquel, and I was like a zombie. I have now been on it for 6 months and already had a change in dosage. I have to take it 3 times a day. At night, I take a stronger dose to help me sleep. I have noticed a slight decrease in my mood fluctuations as well as slight decrease in anxiety. Avoid taking too much, and you will be fine. No matter what you will be drowsy for the first few weeks. I noticed it was harder to wake up in morning as well. Generally speaking I would stay away from it unless it is absolutely necessary to take. No matter what you will have to continually increase your dose for life until you reach a maximum dose at which time you will have to start from scratch with a different medication. The first time I was in the hospital there was an old lady and she was on like 1000 mg 2 times a day, she had been on Seroquel for over a decade.

Seroquel side effects that should be immediately reported are signs of Diabetes, huge or quick weight gain, Suicidal thoughts, Dizziness or fainting when going from a sitting or lying position to a standing position, Abnormal muscle movements (twitches etc...) , and any signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome. In general you will most likely feel drowsy, dry mouth and that's it. If you are taking too much then the drowsiness will persist for over a month and will make your family think you are lazy because you will fall asleep very easily during normal activities. I am not a doctor so I really can not recommend a substitute for Seroquel. It seems all medications have some side effects and it is a matter of your personal chemistry as to which side effects you are able and willing to tolerate. Good luck with your treatment.

Sources:

http://bipolar-disorder.emedtv.com/seroquel/seroquel-side-effects.html

http://www.seroquel.com/bipolar-disorder/about-bipolar-disorder/bipolar-disorder-treatment-medication.aspx?source=315&wt.mc_id=SQL2H08GOOPSBIPADH&wt_srch=1