Seroquel

Before taking quetiapine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: Alzheimer’s disease, low blood pressure, disease of the blood vessels in the brain (e.g., stroke), blood disorders (e.g., leukopenia, neutropenia), a severe loss of body water (dehydration), certain eye problems (cataracts), liver disease, seizures, trouble swallowing, thyroid problems.

Also tell your doctor or pharmacist if you or a family member has a history of the following: alcohol/drug abuse, diabetes, heart disease (e.g., ischemic heart disease, heart failure, heart rhythm problems), high blood cholesterol/triglyceride levels, high blood pressure, obesity.

Get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position to avoid dizziness and lightheadedness. This is more likely to occur in the first few days after starting/restarting the drug or after your dose increases.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages.

This drug may also cause significant weight gain and a rise in your blood cholesterol (or triglyceride) levels. These effects may increase your risk for developing heart disease, especially if you also have diabetes. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor. (See also Notes section.)

This drug may infrequently make your blood sugar level rise, causing or worsening diabetes. This high blood sugar can rarely cause serious conditions such as diabetic coma. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of high blood sugar such as unusual increased thirst/urination or vision changes. If you already have diabetes, be sure to check your blood sugar level regularly.

This drug can make you more likely to get heat stroke. Avoid activities that may cause you to overheat (e.g., strenuous work, exercising in hot weather, using hot tubs). Drink plenty of fluids, dress lightly, and stay in cool/air-conditioned areas when the weather is hot.