Quetiapine 100mg

Quetiapine 100mg — Uses and Benefits

Quetiapine 100mg is mainly prescribed for the treatment of serious mental health conditions that affect mood, thoughts, and behaviour.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder (mania and depression episodes)
• As an add-on treatment for major depressive disorder, when advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks and regulates certain brain chemicals called dopamine and serotonin
• This helps reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disturbed thinking
• It also helps stabilise mood swings in bipolar disorder
• It may cause calmness and improved sleep due to its sedative effect

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat physical pain
• It is not used for simple anxiety or everyday stress without a psychiatric diagnosis
• It is not a sleeping pill for occasional insomnia
• It should not be used for dementia-related behavioural problems in elderly patients unless specifically advised, due to increased risk of stroke and death

This medicine should only be used under the supervision of a qualified doctor, as the condition and dose need regular monitoring.

How to Use Quetiapine 100mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day
• It can be taken with or without food, but try to be consistent
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says so
• Do not stop taking it suddenly, even if you feel better, without consulting your doctor
• It may take a few weeks to feel the full benefit

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss several doses, contact your doctor before restarting

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use if the tablet looks damaged or discoloured
• Discard expired medicine safely, do not flush it down the drain

Quetiapine 100mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Drowsiness or sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Weight gain
• Constipation

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Increased appetite
• Blurred vision
• Low blood pressure on standing up
• Weakness or tiredness
• Indigestion

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• High fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating (signs of a rare but serious reaction called neuroleptic malignant syndrome)
• Uncontrolled movements of face or body
• Fainting, irregular or fast heartbeat
• Signs of high blood sugar such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unusual tiredness
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Thoughts of self-harm or worsening depression
• Seizures

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Quetiapine 100mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and must not be used without a valid doctor's prescription.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to quetiapine or any of its ingredients
• Are taking certain medicines that strongly interact with quetiapine, such as some antifungals or HIV medicines, unless approved by your doctor
• Are a child, unless specifically prescribed by a specialist

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have heart disease, low blood pressure, or a history of stroke
• Have diabetes or a family history of diabetes
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of seizures
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are elderly with dementia, due to increased risk of stroke
• Have a history of substance abuse or suicidal thoughts

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antipsychotics or sedatives
• Antidepressants
• Blood pressure medicines
• Antifungal or antibiotic medicines
• Alcohol, which can increase drowsiness
• Anti-seizure medicines like phenytoin or carbamazepine

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

No, alcohol can increase drowsiness and other side effects, so it is best avoided.

Will this medicine make me gain weight?

Weight gain is a possible side effect for some people; your doctor may monitor your weight and blood sugar regularly.

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

• It can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.