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Generic Name: quetiapine

An atypical antipsychotic - It is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, also known as ma... more

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What is this medicine?

QUETIAPINE (kwe TYE a peen) is an antipsychotic. It is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depression.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

brain tumor or head injury
breast cancer
cataracts
diabetes
difficulty swallowing
heart disease
kidney disease
liver disease
low blood counts, like low white cell, platelet, or red cell counts
low blood pressure or dizziness when standing up
Parkinson's disease
previous heart attack
seizures
suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt by you or a family member
thyroid disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to quetiapine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Swallow it with a drink of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. If it upsets your stomach you can take it with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Patients over age 65 years may have a stronger reaction to this medicine and need smaller doses.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

chlorpromazine
cisapride
droperidol
grepafloxacin
halofantrine
mesoridazine
pimozide
sparfloxacin
thioridazine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

alcohol
antifungal medicines like fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, or voriconazole
antiviral medicines for HIV or AIDS
cimetidine
erythromycin
haloperidol
lorazepam
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines for diabetes
medicines for high blood pressure
medicines for Parkinson's disease
medicines for seizures like carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin
rifampin
steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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