Seroquel Usage Instructions
Patients are advised to read the medication guide or information leaflet provided with the drug before starting the medication. It is important to follow the given usage instructions in order to have the best therapeutic response.
- Seroquel must be taken by mouth as directed by the doctor.
- This drug can be taken without food or with light meal.
- Seroquel tablet should not be crushed or chewed.
- Patients should continue taking this medication exactly as prescribed by their doctor.
- One should not suddenly stop using the drug.
Quetiapine Dosages
Patients are usually prescribed with a low dose of Seroquel which is gradually increased by the doctor. Doctor prescribed the dosage depending upon the patient’s age, weight, health and medical conditions. Patients are advised to strictly follow the doctor recommended dosage.
The starting dose of Quetiapine for the treatment of bipolar disorder is 50 mg of tablet taken twice in a day. The dose for this treatment can be gradually increased up to 400 mg in a day.
The initial dose of Quetiapine for the treatment of schizophrenia is 25 mg twice in a day. This dose can further be increased to 300-400 mg in a day.
The starting dose of this drug for treating major depression is 50 mg taken in the evening and is further increased to 150 mg in the two days.
Missed Dose and Overdose of Quetiapine
If a patient has missed a dose of Quetiapine he/she should take it as soon as they remember. If it almost the time for next schedule dose then patient should skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Patients should never take a double dose of the drug to compensate the missed one.
In case of overdose of Quetiapine patients must immediately consult doctor or can seek advice from Local Poisons Information Centre. Even if there is no sign of discomfort or poisoning, the overdose victim must be provided with the medical attention. Some of the overdose symptoms include feeling drowsy or sleepy, dizziness and fast heart beats.
Storage Instructions
It is vital to safely store the drug to ensure that its efficacy is maintained till the very end.
- Seroquel should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
- It should be kept away from the reach of children.
- Expired and unused drug should be safely disposed.
