Seroquel

Before taking this medicine

Do not take Seroquel if you are allergic to quetiapine or any of its ingredients. Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported. Conditions requiring caution or monitoring include: • Heart or blood vessel disease, or disease affecting blood vessels in the brain, because of the risk of low blood pressure. • Dementia-related psychosis in older adults: atypical antipsychotics have been linked to an increased risk of stroke and transient ischaemic attack (TIA). • Diabetes or risk factors for diabetes. Blood glucose should be monitored regularly in these patients. Increased thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger or weakness may indicate high blood sugar. • Abnormal blood fats or weight gain. Blood lipid testing and weight monitoring are recommended. • A low white blood cell count or a history of low white blood cells. Frequent blood counts are recommended during the first few months of treatment. • Urinary retention, an enlarged prostate or constipation, or use of other medicines with anticholinergic effects. • Pregnancy: exposure during the third trimester may cause movement problems or withdrawal symptoms in newborns. Blood pressure monitoring is recommended for children and adolescents. Eye lens examinations are recommended when treatment starts and every six months during long-term treatment because lens changes have been reported. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome requires immediate discontinuation and close monitoring. If tardive dyskinesia develops, the prescriber may consider stopping treatment.