Is Seroquel Used for Depression?

Seroquel is the market name of a drug called "Quetiapine," which is produced by AstraZeneca. It is primarily used as an antipsychotic for schizophrenia or to treat bipolar disorder. However, doctors and psychiatrists also prescribe this drug for off-label usage to treat alcoholism, insomnia, anxiety disorders and major depression.

Although Seroquel mainly treats schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, it is also used to treat major depression. According to the Seroquel website (see Resources below), it has a similar stabilizing effect that allows the drug to treat depression. The medication is often used in cases where traditional antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication have either failed or have strong side effects. Physicians have also been known to take advantage of Seroquel's use as a stabilizing sedative for patients suffering from sleeping disorders or general anxiety.

Dosage is an important consideration when prescribing Seroquel. Doctors might prescribe several hundred milligrams for use as an antipsychotic; however, a 100 to 300 mg dosage is often enough for treating major depression or general anxiety disorder. Finding the right dosage is critical to alleviating the symptoms of depression without causing further problems. If too much Seroquel is taken, lethargy will occur. If too little is taken, symptoms will not be relieved. Your doctor should initially prescribe a small dose, and then slowly increase it. It's important to keep your physician informed about how you feel at each increase in order to determine the correct dosage.

In addition to drowsiness, Seroquel also has a number of other side effects, including possible weight gain. Regular exercise is recommended while taking this medication. Exercising has been clinically proven to help with major depression and will also help keep possible weight gain under control. Other side effects may include upset stomach, dry mouth, constipation, stuffy nose, dizziness, headaches and increased paranoia. Most of these will be minimal while on a dosage consistent with treating depression or anxiety. Nevertheless, consult with your doctor or psychiatrist frequently in order to manage these potential problems.

Seroquel is taken at bedtime. It can be taken with or without food. If you miss a dose, try to take the dose you missed as soon as possible unless it's almost time for another one. It's important that you don't take two doses at once, but it's also important that you keep up with the proper dose schedule. Don't cut the tablet because this can affect the way it's released into your system.