Can Seroquel cause a high. What are the dangers of misusing this antipsychotic medication. How does Seroquel affect the brain when abused. What are the responsible ways to use Seroquel as prescribed.

What is Seroquel and How Does it Work?

Seroquel, known generically as quetiapine, is a prescription antipsychotic medication used to treat various mental health conditions. It comes in immediate-release and extended-release (Seroquel XR) tablet forms. As an atypical antipsychotic, Seroquel works by altering brain chemistry, specifically by modulating serotonin and dopamine levels.

How exactly does Seroquel affect the brain? When taken as prescribed, it helps balance neurotransmitters to improve symptoms of conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. By regulating serotonin and dopamine, Seroquel can help stabilize mood, reduce hallucinations, enhance concentration, and alleviate depressive or manic episodes in individuals with these mental health disorders.

Legitimate Medical Uses of Seroquel

Doctors prescribe Seroquel for several approved uses:

• Treatment of schizophrenia
• Managing manic and depressive episodes in bipolar disorder
• Adjunct therapy for major depressive disorder
• Off-label uses for anxiety, insomnia, and PTSD in some cases

When used appropriately under medical supervision, Seroquel can be highly effective in managing symptoms and improving quality of life for those with serious mental illnesses. The dosage and treatment plan are carefully determined based on the specific condition, patient age, and other individual factors.

Can Seroquel Produce a High When Misused?

While Seroquel is not typically considered a drug of abuse, some individuals do misuse it in an attempt to get high. Can Seroquel actually produce euphoric effects? When taken in large doses or by methods other than oral ingestion, Seroquel can potentially cause intense sedation, dissociation, and mood alteration that some may perceive as a “high.”

How does this recreational misuse occur? Some ways people abuse Seroquel include:

• Taking much higher doses than prescribed
• Crushing and snorting the tablets
• Injecting dissolved Seroquel
• Combining it with other drugs or alcohol

These methods of misuse can lead to a rapid onset of effects and potentially dangerous consequences. The “high” from Seroquel abuse often involves extreme drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired cognition rather than euphoria.

Dangers and Side Effects of Seroquel Abuse

Misusing Seroquel carries significant risks beyond its intended medical use. What are the potential dangers of abusing this medication? Some serious side effects and risks include:

• Overdose
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Severe sedation and respiratory depression
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• Seizures
• Exacerbation of mental health symptoms

Even when taken as prescribed, Seroquel can cause side effects like dry mouth, weight gain, dizziness, and constipation. Abusing the drug amplifies these risks substantially. Long-term misuse may lead to permanent health consequences.

Risk of Overdose

Seroquel overdose is a serious concern with recreational abuse. What are the signs of a Seroquel overdose? Symptoms may include:

• Extreme drowsiness or loss of consciousness
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Low blood pressure
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures

An overdose can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. The risk increases significantly when Seroquel is combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or opioids.

Seroquel’s Addiction Potential

Is Seroquel addictive? While not classified as a controlled substance, Seroquel does carry a risk of psychological dependence and addiction, especially when misused. Some individuals may develop cravings for the sedating effects of the drug.

What factors contribute to Seroquel addiction? Risk factors include:

• History of substance abuse
• Using Seroquel for non-medical purposes
• Combining Seroquel with other drugs
• Taking higher doses than prescribed
• Using alternative routes of administration (snorting, injecting)

Individuals with a history of addiction or those who misuse Seroquel recreationally are at higher risk of developing problematic use patterns. It’s crucial to use this medication only as directed by a healthcare provider.

Seroquel Withdrawal and Discontinuation

Abruptly stopping Seroquel, especially after long-term use or misuse, can lead to withdrawal symptoms. What does Seroquel withdrawal involve? Common symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Insomnia
• Anxiety and agitation
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Return or worsening of psychiatric symptoms

The severity of withdrawal can vary based on factors like dosage, duration of use, and individual physiology. It’s crucial to work with a healthcare provider to safely taper off Seroquel rather than stopping cold turkey.

Medically Supervised Detox

For individuals struggling with Seroquel abuse or addiction, a medically supervised detox program may be necessary. These programs provide monitoring and support to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Detox is often the first step in a comprehensive addiction treatment plan.

Responsible Use and Alternatives

How can individuals use Seroquel safely and responsibly? Here are some key guidelines:

• Take only as prescribed by a doctor
• Never increase dosage without medical supervision
• Do not combine with alcohol or other drugs
• Report any concerning side effects to your healthcare provider
• Store medication securely to prevent misuse by others

Are there alternatives to Seroquel for treating mental health conditions? While Seroquel can be highly effective, other options may be considered based on individual needs and response to treatment. These may include:

• Other atypical antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone, olanzapine)
• Mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium, valproic acid)
• Antidepressants
• Psychotherapy and counseling
• Lifestyle modifications and stress management techniques

The choice of treatment should always be made in consultation with a qualified mental health professional.

Recognizing and Addressing Seroquel Abuse

How can you identify if someone is misusing Seroquel? Signs of abuse may include:

• Taking higher doses than prescribed
• Seeking multiple prescriptions from different doctors
• Crushing or altering the medication
• Combining Seroquel with other substances
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms between doses
• Neglecting responsibilities due to drug use

If you suspect someone is abusing Seroquel, it’s important to approach the situation with care and compassion. Encourage them to speak with their healthcare provider or seek help from a substance abuse professional.

Treatment Options for Seroquel Abuse

What treatment options are available for individuals struggling with Seroquel abuse? Comprehensive treatment may include:

• Medical detoxification
• Inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation programs
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Support groups
• Dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders

The most appropriate treatment plan will depend on the individual’s specific situation, including the severity of abuse, presence of other substance use disorders, and underlying mental health conditions.

The Importance of Mental Health Support

Why is ongoing mental health support crucial for individuals prescribed Seroquel? Proper management of mental health conditions is essential for preventing misuse and ensuring the medication’s effectiveness. This support may include:

• Regular check-ins with a psychiatrist or mental health provider
• Psychotherapy or counseling sessions
• Participation in support groups
• Development of coping strategies for managing symptoms
• Education about medication management and potential risks

By addressing underlying mental health needs comprehensively, individuals can reduce the risk of turning to substance abuse as a form of self-medication.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

What are the legal implications of Seroquel misuse? While Seroquel is not a controlled substance, obtaining it without a prescription or distributing it illegally can lead to legal consequences. Additionally, driving or operating machinery while impaired by Seroquel can result in criminal charges.

From an ethical standpoint, healthcare providers must balance the benefits of prescribing Seroquel with the potential risks of misuse. This involves careful patient assessment, education about proper use, and ongoing monitoring for signs of abuse or diversion.

Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs

Many states have implemented prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) to track the dispensing of certain medications, including some antipsychotics like Seroquel. These programs aim to prevent “doctor shopping” and identify potential patterns of misuse.

Future Directions in Antipsychotic Treatment

What does the future hold for antipsychotic medications like Seroquel? Ongoing research is focused on developing new treatments with fewer side effects and lower abuse potential. Some areas of investigation include:

• Novel drug formulations to reduce misuse potential
• Targeted therapies that act on specific neural pathways
• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic profiles
• Non-pharmacological interventions to complement medication treatment

As our understanding of mental health disorders and brain function continues to evolve, so too will the approaches to treating these conditions safely and effectively.

In conclusion, while Seroquel can be a valuable medication for managing serious mental health conditions, its potential for misuse and abuse cannot be overlooked. By promoting responsible use, increasing awareness of the risks, and providing comprehensive support for those with mental health needs, we can work towards minimizing the harmful consequences of Seroquel abuse while ensuring that those who benefit from the medication can access it safely.

Can Seroquel Get You High?

What Is Seroquel?

Seroquel is the brand name of the prescription drug quetiapine. This drug is available in brand-name and generic versions and has immediate-release and extended-release options. The brand name for the extended-release option is Seroquel XR. Both options usually come in the form of an oral tablet.

When an individual takes this atypical antipsychotic, the chemical activity in their brain is altered. Seroquel releases serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which improves symptoms in individuals with various mental health disorders.

Why People Use Seroquel

Doctors commonly prescribe Seroquel to treat or ease the symptoms of various mental health disorders including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. It may be used in combination with therapy and may be prescribed in addition to another medication, like an antidepressant. When used correctly, Seroquel may prevent mood swings, decrease hallucinations (if applicable), improve concentration, increase confidence, and treat depressive or manic episodes. The Seroquel dosage depends on various factors like the specific mental health condition being treated, the age of the individual being treated, and others. 

Does Seroquel Get You High?

If Seroquel is misused, it can cause someone to feel an intense and potentially dangerous high. Abusing Seroquel to improve mood, increase pleasure, or reduce anxiety may result in unpleasant or even fatal side effects. When misused, Seroquel overdoses are possible and may include symptoms like drowsiness/sleepiness, increased heartbeat, dizziness, and fainting.

This prescription drug comes with a high risk of addiction, especially when combined with other medications and drugs. Some individuals who misuse Seroquel may mix it with cocaine, for example. Chances of addiction and dependence also increase when someone snorts or injects Seroquel instead of taking it as an oral tablet. When Seroquel is snorted, it enters the bloodstream more quickly, resulting it an intense high and can lead to a Seroquel overdose.

Side Effects of Seroquel

Seroquel, when misused, comes with complications. It’s still important to be careful when using Seroquel as prescribed, including the Seroquel dosage, while also considering the potential symptoms and risks that come with regular use.

Side effects of Seroquel may include:

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Constipation
• Stomach pain
• Increased appetite
• Weight gain
• nausea/vomiting
• Sore throat
• Rapid heartbeat
• Weakness
• Trouble moving

Not only can this prescription drug potentially cause undesirable symptoms, but it can also have long-lasting side effects.

Risks of Seroquel Use

Individual risks of taking Seroquel vary from person to person based on their mental health condition, their age, etc., however, some possible risks to consider include:

• Suicidal thoughts/actions

• Increased cholesterol

• High blood sugar

• Low white blood cell count

• Cataracts

• Seizures

• Changes in thyroid levels

• Metabolism changes

• Stroke

• Allergies

• Tremors

Although Seroquel does come with its possible dangers and risks, it’s usually harmless if used as prescribed and responsibly. If you experience any of the issues above while using Seroquel, it’s vital to talk to your doctor to discuss the best next steps.

Responsible Use of Seroquel

Seroquel can interact with other medications. For example, it shouldn’t be combined with anti-arrhythmic drugs, certain antibiotics, antipsychotic drugs, alcohol, or methadone. When mixed with specific drugs, the side effects may increase and become more intense. These drugs include benzodiazepines, muscle relaxants, certain pain medications, antihistamines, and sedatives.

If addiction occurs, residential addiction treatment, like the one we offer at Silver Pines, is likely the best solution. . Our residential addiction treatment program begins with detoxing, allowing individuals to experience the effects in Seroquel withdrawal in a comfortable and healthy environment. Due to the dangers of Seroquel withdrawal, it’s important to speak with your doctor if you’re thinking of stopping the drug.

If you have any questions about the effects of Seroquel and other prescription drugs and if you need to enter a drug detox program, like the one we offer at Silver Pines, call us today at 267. 719.8689. 

Sources

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/quetiapine-oral-tablet#alternatives

https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/quetiapine

The Dangers Of Snorting Seroquel (Insufflation)

Quetiapine Misuse and Abuse: Is it an Atypical Paradigm of Drug Seeking Behavior?

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Side effects of neuroleptics and excess weight

Author Masha Pushkina, psychoeducator Views 914 02 Antipsychotics and excess weight is a problem that worries many. As you know, antipsychotics affect weight gain. According to statistics, more than 80% of people with severe mental disorders are overweight. A patient taking olonzapine gains an average of 2. 3 kg per month, clozapine – 1.7 kg, quetiapine – 1.8 kg, zotepine – 2.3 kg.

Weight gain with antipsychotics

Weight gain is a very common side effect of many antipsychotics, especially some second-generation (newer) drugs.

This may be due to the fact that neuroleptics increase appetite, so you want to eat more than usual. They can also make you less active and feel tired, so you move less and burn fewer calories.

If you gain a lot of weight, it can increase your risk of developing diabetes and other health problems.

Changes in weight can have a negative effect on mood and self-esteem.

What can be done to keep from getting fat?

If the problem becomes significant, it should be discussed with your psychiatrist and possibly switched to another antipsychotic. You should also eat a healthy diet and increase your level of physical activity.

Weight gain often causes patients to resist taking pills, and it also creates additional psychological or physiological problems that then have to be sorted out. Weight gain due to psychotropic drugs is not the only reason why people with mental disorders gain weight, but let’s look at this problem.

What is considered overweight?

In clinical practice, to assess body weight, physicians are usually guided by the concept of body mass index (BMI), which was developed by the Belgian sociologist and statistician Adolphe Quetelet back in 1869. This is a value that allows you to assess the degree of correspondence between a person’s mass and his height, and thereby indirectly assess whether the mass is insufficient, normal or excessive.

Body mass index is calculated by the formula: body weight / height in meters squared (kg/m²).

BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered normal, BMI between 25 and 29.9 indicates overweight, BMI between 30 and 39.9 indicates obesity of I and II degrees, BMI above 40 indicates morbid obesity, that is, condition of the body that interferes with the normal functioning of the body.

The interpretation of BMI indicators recommended by the World Health Organization does not take into account the sex and age of the person, and this is a flaw in the system, but the US Department of Health, for example, collects statistics on anthropometric data on BMI. These data show that BMI is generally higher in men than in women. In addition, BMI is higher in middle-aged people than in young and old people.

Which drugs make you gain weight. Whether only from neuroleptics?

There are a number of studies that have examined the relationship between weight gain and certain groups of drugs. Metabolic disorders are most often associated with the use of antipsychotics.

A patient taking olonzapine gains on average 2.3 kg per month, clozapine 1.7 kg, quetiapine 1.8 kg, zotepine 2.3 kg. Changes in weight during the course of the studies were also observed in those taking risperidone (1.0 kg per month) and ziprasidone (0.8 kg per month).

Also gaining weight are patients taking antidepressants and lithium, which is used in the treatment of mood disorders, in particular the manic and hypomanic phases of bipolar disorder, as well as in the prevention of its exacerbations and in the treatment of severe and resistant depression. Here, research data diverge, but if you measure the average values, then in the course of observations it turned out that people on antidepressants can add from 0.57 to 1.37 kg per month. With regard to lithium, 20% of patients on long-term treatment with this drug gain more than 10 kg of weight.

What is it about these medicines that causes weight gain?

There is no unequivocal opinion on this issue among scientists. However, this issue is being studied. Scientists at the National Institute of Mental Health in 2007 conducted an experiment on mice, during which they found that neuroleptics block the brain receptors responsible for controlling appetite. Another study, conducted already in 2012 by the staff of the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, suggests that the problem of weight gain when taking antipsychotics is associated with a genetic predisposition in certain patients to gain excess weight in principle.

Are there drugs that don’t make you fat?

Yes, there certainly are.