Seroquel
Seroquel (also known as Quetiapine) is an antipsychotic that is used to treat schizophrenia and the manic aspect of bipolar disorder.
Some of the common side effects of Seroquel (manufactured by AstraZeneca) include:
- Sedation or drowsiness
- Constipation
- Headache
- Agitation
- Problems with memory
- Upset stomach
- Unexplained weight gain
- Dry mouth
- Low blood pressure
While Seroquel is very effective in treating schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, the drug also has some very serious side effects.
Danger of Seroquel
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns of several serious risks associated with taking Seroquel. One severe side effect that the FDA associates with the drug is the development of diabetes and hyperglycemia, as well as raising the level of cholesterol or causing obesity in patients. Individuals with a history of diabetes in their family or who are obese must keep an especially close eye on their symptoms upon taking Seroquel. Since the on-set of diabetes can occur very quickly, individuals without diabetes who take Seroquel must be monitored closely upon beginning a course of treatment. Untreated diabetes can result in a coma or death for an unsuspecting patient and some symptoms to look for include:
- Polydipsia (excessive thirst)
- Polyuria (excessive urination)
- Polyphagia (excessive hunger)
- Weakness
To highlight the risk associated with Seroquel, among the various antipsychotic drugs, Seroquel was found to be most likely to cause diabetes.
The FDA also warns of two other serious Seroquel side effects that may develop:
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (muscle rigidity, fever, irregular heartbeat and cognitive changes)
- Tardive dyskinesia (involuntary, repetitive movements)
Each of these conditions is a life-threatening neurological disorder.
The FDA has also observed an increase likelihood of death for elderly patients who are treated for dementia using Seroquel. These deaths were typically associated with cardiovascular or infectious causes. (Seroquel is not currently approved by the FDA to treat dementia.)
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to Seroquel, such as suffering from diabetes or one of the other conditions discussed above while taking Seroquel, you should seek the advice of experienced legal counsel to determine your options and to preserve your rights. Contact Anderson Law Offices for a free evaluation of your case.
