Symptoms of Withdrawal from Seroquel
Withdrawal from Seroquel (Quetiapine) can lead to a range of symptoms that vary depending on factors such as dosage, duration of use, and individual physiology. Seroquel is an atypical antipsychotic medication commonly prescribed for conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder.
When discontinuing Seroquel abruptly or rapidly reducing the dose, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms due to changes in neurotransmitter activity in the brain. If you want to know the symptoms of withdrawal from Seroquel, keep on reading the blog.
What is Withdrawal?
Withdrawal refers to the physical and psychological symptoms experienced when a person stops or reduces the intake of a substance they have become dependent on. Commonly associated with drugs, alcohol, and certain medications, withdrawal can manifest in various symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, sweating, nausea, and tremors.
The severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the substance, the duration of use, and the individual’s health. Managing withdrawal often requires medical supervision and support to ensure safety and increase the likelihood of successful recovery. Read more about the symptoms of withdrawal from Seroquel in this blog.
How to discontinue Seroquel?
Discontinuing Seroquel (Quetiapine) must be performed under the guidance of the concerned doctor to reduce any withdrawal signs and potential relapse of signs. Typically, the process involves gradually tapering off the medication over several weeks or months, depending on the individual’s dosage and response.
Your doctor will create a discontinuation plan tailored to your specific needs, reducing the dose slowly to allow your body to adjust. Monitoring for any withdrawal symptoms or recurrence of symptoms is crucial during this time.
It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and to communicate any concerns or changes in your condition throughout the tapering process. Keep on reading the symptoms of withdrawal from Seroquel.
Symptoms of withdrawal from Seroquel:
symptoms of withdrawal from Seroquel may vary in intensity and duration based on individual factors like dosage, duration of use, and personal health. One of the most common symptoms is insomnia, where individuals find it challenging to fall or stay asleep, leading to fatigue and decreased functioning during the day. This lack of sleep can exacerbate other withdrawal symptoms and overall discomfort.
Nausea and vomiting are also prevalent, often accompanied by gastrointestinal distress. These symptoms can lead to decreased appetite and weight loss, further affecting one’s overall health and energy levels. Persistent headaches and dizziness are additional physical symptoms that can make day-to-day activities difficult, adding to the individual’s discomfort and distress during the withdrawal process.
Anxiety and agitation are notable psychological symptoms of Seroquel withdrawal. Individuals may feel heightened anxiety, restlessness, and irritability, making it hard to relax or focus. Mood swings, including sudden shifts to depression or anger, can also occur, significantly impacting mental well-being and interpersonal relationships. These mood changes are often accompanied by sweating and shivering, where individuals might experience excessive sweating or chills, contributing to their overall sense of unease.
Palpitations, or irregular and rapid heartbeats, can be alarming and add to the anxiety experienced during withdrawal. Extreme fatigue is another common symptom, where individuals feel a persistent lack of energy and motivation, making it difficult to engage in daily activities or maintain a routine. Flu-like symptoms, including muscle aches, a runny nose, and fever, can further complicate the withdrawal process, making individuals feel generally unwell.
Cognitive issues such as difficulty concentrating and memory problems can also arise, affecting an individual’s ability to perform tasks that require focus and mental clarity. Additionally, one of the most concerning aspects of Seroquel withdrawal is the potential return or worsening of the underlying psychiatric symptoms that the medication was initially prescribed to manage.
For those with conditions like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, this can mean a resurgence of severe mood swings, hallucinations, or delusions, necessitating careful monitoring and support during the withdrawal process.
Seroquel Withdrawal Timeline:
- Days 1-3: Initial symptoms like insomnia, nausea, and anxiety may begin.
- Days 4-7: Withdrawal effects intensify, including mood swings and irritability.
- Week 2: Physical symptoms like headaches and dizziness may persist.
- Week 3-4: Emotional symptoms such as depression and agitation might occur.
- Month 1+: Symptoms typically start to lessen but can vary in intensity.
- Long-term: Occasional cravings and mood fluctuations may continue. Seek medical advice for support.
Can Seroquel withdrawal kill you?
Symptoms of withdrawal from Seroquel are generally not fatal, but it can cause severe symptoms like extreme agitation, severe insomnia, and mood swings, which may require medical attention. Abruptly stopping Seroquel can lead to complications, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider before discontinuing the medication to ensure a safe and monitored withdrawal process.
How to cope with Seroquel withdrawal?
To cope with Seroquel’s withdrawal, taper off the medication gradually under a doctor’s supervision. Stay hydrated, maintain a balanced diet, and get plenty of rest. Engage in stress-reducing activities like light exercise, meditation, or deep breathing. Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional to manage emotional symptoms.
Also Read: Seroquel for sleep: Does it work?
FAQs
How to wake up from Seroquel?
Waking up from Seroquel can vary depending on factors like dosage and individual response. It’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider before making any changes. If advised to stop, they may gradually taper your dosage to minimize withdrawal symptoms and manage any potential rebound effects of the condition being treated. Always follow your doctor’s guidance closely and seek their advice if you experience any issues during the process.
Does Seroquel get you high?
Seroquel is not typically used to induce a euphoric or “high” feeling. It is an antipsychotic medication primarily prescribed to treat conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. While some individuals may experience sedation or drowsiness as side effects, using Seroquel to achieve a high is not safe or recommended. Misusing Seroquel can lead to serious side effects, including dizziness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, and potentially life-threatening complications. It’s crucial to take medications only as prescribed by a healthcare professional and to seek medical advice if you have concerns about their effects.
Will Seroquel show up in a drug screen?
Yes, Seroquel can potentially show up in a drug screen, depending on the type of test being conducted. Standard drug screens typically do not test for quetiapine unless specifically requested, as it is not considered a controlled substance with abuse potential like opioids or stimulants. However, specialized tests such as those used in forensic or employment screenings may include quetiapine detection. It’s important to disclose all medications you are taking to the testing facility or healthcare provider to ensure accurate interpretation of results. Always follow medical advice and inform healthcare providers about any prescription medications you are using.
Can you drink on Seroquel?
It is generally advised to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Seroquel (quetiapine). Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of Seroquel, leading to excessive drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. This combination can be dangerous and increase the risk of accidents or falls. Moreover, alcohol can worsen certain side effects of Seroquel, such as dizziness and drowsiness. Additionally, alcohol and Seroquel both affect the central nervous system, potentially leading to additive effects that can impair judgment and cognitive function. Long-term alcohol use may also interfere with the effectiveness of Seroquel in treating psychiatric conditions.
Does seroquel cause tardive dyskinesia?
Seroquel is an atypical antipsychotic medication that has a lower risk of causing tardive dyskinesia compared to typical antipsychotics. Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements, typically involving the face (such as lip smacking or tongue protrusion), trunk, or extremities. While the risk with Seroquel is lower, it can still occur, especially with long-term use and higher doses. Regular monitoring and dose adjustments can help minimize the risk of tardive dyskinesia.
How long do Seroquel withdrawal symptoms last?
Seroquel withdrawal symptoms can last from a few days to several weeks. The duration varies depending on factors such as the dosage, length of use, and individual differences. Common withdrawal symptoms include insomnia, nausea, headache, and irritability. It’s important to taper off Seroquel under medical supervision to minimize withdrawal effects. This blog gives a clear understanding of the symptoms of withdrawal from Seroquel.