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The Effects of Seroquel for the Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that exhibits extreme emotional highs and lows. Seroquel, approved by the FDA, is a medication used to treat this severe condition. Although some people are successfully using Seroquel without any noticeable side effects, others may develop minor or very serious adverse effects.

  1. Seroquel's Purpose

    • The belief is that bipolar disorder occurs when the brain is not properly functioning due to chemical imbalances. The antidepresseant Seroquel is believed to treat the condition by normalizing the chemical imbalances located in the brain.

    Initial Treatment

    • In the beginning phase of Seroquel treatment, experiencing suicidal thoughts is possible, reports Drugs.com. The risk of having suicidal thoughts is very high in people aged 24 and younger.

    Common Side Effects

    • The most prevalent side effects caused by Seroquel include fatigue, dry mouth, an increase in cholesterol, nausea, constipation, weight gain, a clogged nose, problems with speaking, and drowsiness, according to Healthsquare.com.

    Serious Side Effects

    • Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a severe side effect of Seroquel which causes body parts to move uncontrollably, claims SeroquelXR. Usually TD worsens when the dose is increased. In some cases TD is temporary; in others it may become permanent.

    When to Stop

    • In very rare instances, Seroquel may lead to neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), which can be lethal. If a patient exhibits signs of a high fever, stiff muscles, trembling, bewilderment, sweating, fluctuation in heart rate, changes in blood pressure, and/or muscle ache, contact the doctor immediately. The use of Seroquel must be stopped if NMS is diagnosed.

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