Can Seroquel get you high. What are the potential side effects of Seroquel misuse. How can Seroquel be used responsibly. What are the risks associated with Seroquel addiction. How is Seroquel addiction treated.

Understanding Seroquel: Uses and Mechanisms

Seroquel, known generically as quetiapine, is a prescription medication classified as an atypical antipsychotic. It’s available in both immediate-release and extended-release (Seroquel XR) formulations, typically administered as oral tablets. The drug works by altering brain chemistry, specifically by modulating the release of serotonin and dopamine.

Doctors commonly prescribe Seroquel for various mental health conditions, including:

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression (often in combination with antidepressants)

When used as directed, Seroquel can help manage symptoms such as mood swings, hallucinations, and depressive episodes. It may also improve concentration and boost confidence in individuals with these conditions.

The Potential for Seroquel Misuse

Despite its therapeutic benefits, Seroquel carries a risk of misuse and addiction. Some individuals may attempt to use Seroquel recreationally to achieve a high or alleviate anxiety. This misuse can lead to dangerous consequences.

Can Seroquel cause a high?

Yes, when misused, Seroquel can induce an intense and potentially hazardous high. This effect is particularly pronounced when the drug is snorted or injected, rather than taken orally as prescribed. These methods of administration result in a rapid onset of effects, increasing the risk of overdose and addiction.

Risks of Seroquel abuse

Abusing Seroquel can lead to several serious risks:

• Overdose symptoms (drowsiness, increased heartbeat, dizziness, fainting)
• Increased risk of addiction, especially when combined with other substances
• Potential for dangerous drug interactions
• Heightened risk of severe side effects

Side Effects and Risks of Seroquel Use

Even when used as prescribed, Seroquel can cause a range of side effects. It’s crucial for patients and healthcare providers to weigh these potential effects against the benefits of treatment.

Common side effects of Seroquel

Some of the more frequently reported side effects include:

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Constipation
• Stomach pain
• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid heartbeat
• Weakness and trouble moving

Long-term risks of Seroquel use

Extended use of Seroquel may lead to more serious health concerns:

• Increased cholesterol levels
• High blood sugar
• Low white blood cell count
• Cataracts
• Seizures
• Changes in thyroid function
• Metabolic changes
• Increased risk of stroke

It’s important to note that these risks vary based on individual factors such as age, overall health, and specific mental health conditions.

Responsible Use and Drug Interactions

To minimize risks and maximize benefits, Seroquel should always be used under medical supervision and as prescribed. Patients should be aware of potential drug interactions and discuss all medications and supplements with their healthcare provider.

Medications that may interact with Seroquel

Seroquel can interact negatively with several types of medications, including:

• Anti-arrhythmic drugs
• Certain antibiotics
• Other antipsychotic medications
• Methadone
• Benzodiazepines
• Muscle relaxants
• Certain pain medications
• Antihistamines
• Sedatives

Alcohol should also be avoided while taking Seroquel, as it can intensify the drug’s sedative effects.

Recognizing Seroquel Addiction

Seroquel addiction can develop, particularly when the drug is misused or combined with other substances. Recognizing the signs of addiction is crucial for early intervention and treatment.

Signs of Seroquel addiction

Some indicators that someone may be struggling with Seroquel addiction include:

• Using Seroquel in ways other than prescribed (e.g., snorting or injecting)
• Seeking multiple prescriptions from different doctors
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug
• Neglecting responsibilities due to drug use
• Continuing to use despite negative consequences

Treatment Options for Seroquel Addiction

Addressing Seroquel addiction often requires professional help. Treatment typically begins with a medically supervised detoxification process, followed by comprehensive addiction treatment.

Components of Seroquel addiction treatment

Effective treatment for Seroquel addiction may include:

1. Medical detoxification to manage withdrawal symptoms
2. Inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation programs
3. Cognitive-behavioral therapy to address underlying issues
4. Group therapy and support groups
5. Medication-assisted treatment, if appropriate
6. Aftercare planning to prevent relapse

It’s crucial to seek treatment from facilities experienced in managing prescription drug addiction, such as the residential program offered at Silver Pines Treatment Center.

Preventing Seroquel Misuse and Addiction

Prevention is key in addressing the potential for Seroquel misuse and addiction. Both healthcare providers and patients play important roles in this effort.

Strategies for preventing Seroquel misuse

Some effective prevention strategies include:

• Proper patient education about the risks and proper use of Seroquel
• Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments with healthcare providers
• Careful consideration of alternative treatments for individuals with a history of substance abuse
• Secure storage and proper disposal of unused medication
• Prescription drug monitoring programs to prevent doctor shopping

By implementing these strategies, the risks associated with Seroquel misuse can be significantly reduced.

The Importance of Professional Guidance in Seroquel Use

Given the complex nature of Seroquel and its potential for misuse, professional medical guidance is crucial throughout the course of treatment. This extends from initial prescription to ongoing use and, if necessary, discontinuation of the medication.

Role of healthcare providers in Seroquel treatment

Healthcare providers play a vital role in ensuring safe and effective use of Seroquel:

• Conducting thorough assessments before prescribing Seroquel
• Determining appropriate dosage based on individual factors
• Monitoring for side effects and adjusting treatment as needed
• Providing education about proper use and potential risks
• Assisting with safe discontinuation when necessary

Patients should maintain open communication with their healthcare providers throughout their treatment with Seroquel.

Discontinuing Seroquel safely

Stopping Seroquel abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potential health risks. The process of discontinuing Seroquel should always be supervised by a healthcare professional and typically involves a gradual reduction in dosage over time.

If you’re considering stopping Seroquel, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor to develop a safe tapering plan. This approach can help minimize withdrawal symptoms and ensure your mental health condition remains properly managed during the transition.

Understanding the Broader Context of Antipsychotic Medication Use

Seroquel is just one of many antipsychotic medications available for treating mental health conditions. Understanding the broader landscape of these medications can provide valuable context for patients and caregivers.

Comparison of Seroquel to other antipsychotics

While Seroquel shares many characteristics with other atypical antipsychotics, it has some unique properties:

• Sedative effects: Seroquel tends to be more sedating than some other antipsychotics, which can be beneficial for patients with sleep disturbances.
• Weight gain: While weight gain is a common side effect of many antipsychotics, the risk with Seroquel is considered moderate compared to some other medications in its class.
• Versatility: Seroquel is approved for use in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and as an adjunct treatment for depression, making it a versatile option for some patients.

The choice of antipsychotic medication should always be made on an individual basis, considering the specific symptoms, potential side effects, and patient preferences.

Future directions in antipsychotic medication research

Ongoing research in the field of antipsychotic medications aims to develop drugs with improved efficacy and reduced side effects. Some areas of focus include:

• Targeting specific neurotransmitter systems more precisely
• Developing medications with fewer metabolic side effects
• Exploring novel delivery methods to improve medication adherence
• Investigating personalized medicine approaches to better match patients with the most effective treatments

These advancements may lead to more effective and safer treatment options for individuals with mental health conditions in the future.

The Role of Support Systems in Managing Seroquel Treatment

The journey of managing a mental health condition with Seroquel often extends beyond the individual patient. Family members, friends, and support groups can play crucial roles in ensuring successful treatment and preventing misuse.

How support systems can help

Support systems can contribute to successful Seroquel treatment in several ways:

• Providing emotional support and encouragement
• Helping to monitor for side effects or signs of misuse
• Assisting with medication adherence
• Accompanying patients to medical appointments
• Promoting overall healthy lifestyle habits

Educating family members and close friends about Seroquel, its effects, and potential risks can help create a more informed and supportive environment for the patient.

The importance of peer support groups

Peer support groups can be valuable resources for individuals using Seroquel and their families. These groups offer opportunities to:

• Share experiences and coping strategies
• Learn from others who have faced similar challenges
• Reduce feelings of isolation often associated with mental health conditions
• Stay informed about new developments in treatment options

Many mental health organizations and treatment centers offer support groups specifically for individuals using antipsychotic medications like Seroquel.

Navigating Insurance and Access to Seroquel Treatment

Access to Seroquel and appropriate mental health care can sometimes be challenging due to insurance limitations or financial constraints. Understanding these challenges and available resources is crucial for patients and their families.

Insurance coverage for Seroquel

Insurance coverage for Seroquel can vary widely depending on the specific plan and policy. Some key points to consider include:

• Many insurance plans cover Seroquel, but may require prior authorization
• Some plans may prefer generic quetiapine over brand-name Seroquel
• Coverage may differ between immediate-release and extended-release formulations
• Out-of-pocket costs can vary based on individual plan structures

Patients should review their insurance policies carefully and discuss coverage options with their healthcare providers and insurance representatives.

Resources for accessing Seroquel treatment

For individuals facing challenges in accessing Seroquel treatment, several resources may be available:

• Patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies
• State and local mental health programs
• Nonprofit organizations providing support for mental health treatment access
• Community health centers offering sliding scale fee structures
• Prescription discount programs and coupons

Healthcare providers and social workers can often provide guidance on accessing these resources and navigating insurance challenges.

The Intersection of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders

The relationship between mental health conditions treated with Seroquel and substance use disorders is complex and bidirectional. Understanding this connection is crucial for comprehensive treatment and prevention of Seroquel misuse.

Co-occurring disorders and Seroquel use

Many individuals with mental health conditions also struggle with substance use disorders, a situation known as co-occurring disorders or dual diagnosis. This can complicate Seroquel treatment in several ways:

• Increased risk of medication misuse or addiction
• Potential interactions between Seroquel and substances of abuse
• Challenges in differentiating symptoms of mental illness from effects of substance use
• Need for integrated treatment addressing both mental health and substance use

Healthcare providers must carefully assess for co-occurring disorders when prescribing Seroquel and develop comprehensive treatment plans that address all aspects of a patient’s health.

Integrated treatment approaches

Effective treatment for individuals with co-occurring disorders often involves an integrated approach that simultaneously addresses mental health and substance use issues. Key components of integrated treatment may include:

• Comprehensive assessment and diagnosis
• Medication management, potentially including Seroquel and other appropriate medications
• Individual and group therapy addressing both mental health and substance use
• Peer support and recovery services
• Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans

Specialized dual diagnosis treatment programs, such as those offered at some residential treatment centers, can provide the intensive, integrated care needed for complex cases involving Seroquel use and substance abuse.

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)

Seroquel Addiction | What is Seroquel Used For?

Table of Contents

1. Is Seroquel Addictive?
2. What Type of Drug is It?
3. Is Seroquel Safe?
4. How is It Used?
5. Effects of Seroquel
6. Can You Overdose?
7. How to Stop Using Seroquel
8. Addiction Treatment
9. Key Takeaways

Seroquel, an atypical antipsychotic medication, has been approved by the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of schizophrenia and certain types of bipolar and depressive disorders. Yet, despite warnings, there’s evidence of widespread off-label use of the drug. Several studies even indicate that Seroquel is the most commonly abused atypical antipsychotic. Abuse can lead to addiction that requires treatment and therapy in a rehab facility.

Is Seroquel Addictive?

Although Seroquel (quetiapine) is not a controlled substance, it does have a potential for misuse or abuse. It has the highest potential for abuse when it’s taken without a prescription or taken in a way other than that suggested by a health professional. Studies state that Seroquel is the most abused atypical antipsychotic.¹

It’s believed that people abuse and misuse Seroquel because of how it reduces anxiety and ease sleep deprivation, not because of its euphoric effects. Despite warnings by their doctors, some people take the drug in higher amounts, more often, and for a longer period of time than their doctors recommend.

Abuse in People with Histories of Drug Use

According to several case reports, Seroquel abuse is most common in people with some history of multi-substance abuse. Some case reports are about inmates in jails or prisons, who may take Seroquel because obtaining controlled substances like opioids and benzodiazepines in restrictive environments is not an option. ²

Potential for Addiction

The Korean Society of Applied Pharmacology tried to determine the drug’s potential for causing physical and psychological dependence. Their findings show that quetiapine affects the neurological systems related to abuse liability. They also found that it has the potential to lead to psychological dependence.

Developing Tolerance

Seroquel can make life more bearable for people who have severe mental illnesses. People without mental illnesses may find that the drug helps them experience feelings of pleasure and relaxation. The more they abuse the drug, the more prone they are to developing tolerance. To experience the same high, they’ll need progressively higher doses. Not every person who abuses Seroquel will become addicted. But abuse is the first step toward addiction.

Easy to Abuse

The drug has a potential for misuse, as it comes in a format that’s easy to abuse. People can take the pill orally or crush it and snort the powder. When snorted or used intravenously, the drug creates a large dopamine surge, which can lead to addiction.

More About Other Drugs

Baclofen

Gabapentin

K2-Spice

Marijuana

Meloxicam

Seroquel

Valium

Weight Loss Pills

What Type of Drug is Seroquel?

Seroquel is the brand name for the generic drug quetiapine, which was approved in 1997 by the Food and Drug Administration. It’s a second-generation and atypical antipsychotic used in the treatment of:

Schizophrenia: Doctors often prescribe Seroquel for adult and pediatric schizophrenia.

Bipolar disorder: Seroquel is an approved drug for the treatment of acute depressive episodes in bipolar disorder. It is also used in combination with lithium to enhance treatment for bipolar depressive episodes. Doctors often prescribe it for the long-term management of bipolar disorder and its symptoms.

Major depressive disorder: Seroquel is not the primary drug in the treatment for major depressive disorder, but it can be added to increase the effects of the primary medication.

Seroquel is part of a newer generation of antipsychotic drugs known as atypical antipsychotics (AAs). They are designed to help patients suffering from a psychiatric condition known as psychosis. The first generation of antipsychotic drugs was known to cause Parkinson’s-like side effects. The second-generation antipsychotics come with fewer adverse effects. The most common side effects of the new drugs include weight gain, metabolic problems, and sexual symptoms, among others.

Prescribed to Treat Withdrawal from Other Drugs

Doctors also prescribe AAs for the treatment of withdrawal symptoms from abused substances such as:

Cocaine

Opioids

Alcohol

Benzodiazepines

Antipsychotics may either reduce or increase the level of neurotransmitters in the brain. The affected neurotransmitters include dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline. The drugs primarily affect the levels of dopamine in the brain, as an overactive dopamine system may be one cause of the delusions and hallucinations people experience during psychosis.

Positive Effects

This class of drugs helps patients suffering from mental/mood conditions by restoring the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Some of the positive effects include:

Decreasing hallucinations

Improving concentration

Enhancing positive thought

Reducing nervousness

Raising levels of activity in everyday life

Improving sleep, appetite, and energy levels

Preventing severe mood swings or reducing their number

Is Seroquel a Controlled Substance?

Seroquel is not a controlled substance, as it’s believed not to cause addiction. But studies from recent years report widespread off-label use of the drug.

Little knowledge exists about the reasons for off-label prescribing of Seroquel. Experts argue that Seroquel is a more attractive treatment option than other antipsychotics. It has low dystonia and extrapyramidal side effects.

Some people abuse it due to its sedative effects, either alone or in combination with other substances. Other people take the drug to boost the effects of illicit substances or to prevent their negative effects.

Is Seroquel Safe?

According to the FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System, Seroquel was the primary or secondary suspect in 20,000 cases of adverse events in 2017. That number included 1,754 deaths in which the drug was a primary suspect and 2,309 deaths in which the drug was a secondary suspect. In 93% of the cases, the cause for the incident was an off-label prescribing of the medication.

In recent years, an increasing number of doctors have been prescribing the drug off-label for the treatment of insomnia. Many of these doctors have minimal training in psychiatry and limited understanding of the adverse effects. According to the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, 25% of Americans have acute insomnia each year.³ Even though many medical experts have warned of the pill’s side effects, Seroquel continues to be prescribed to many Americans. The majority of these people are not even aware that the drug is primarily aimed at aiding mental/mood conditions.

Many drugs can affect the side effects of Seroquel and make them more severe. Some drugs that interact with Seroquel and can cause problems include:

Illegal substances, or “street drugs”

Cold, cough, and allergy drugs

Drugs that treat mental illness, such as antidepressants

Drugs used to treat HIV/AIDS

Some types of antibiotics

Heart medications

Fungal disease medications

Seizure medications

Methadone

Steroids that are taken orally

Drugs used to treat Parkinson’s disease

What are the Street Names for Seroquel?

The most common street names for Seroquel include:

Snoozeberries

Susie-Q

Q-ball (when combined with cocaine)

How do People Use Seroquel?

Seroquel can be used in various ways. Most commonly, it’s taken orally as a pill or a tablet on its own. Some people crush the pill or tablet and snort its contents.

Those who don’t want to snort the pill dissolve it in a water-based liquid and inject the content into their veins. Abusing Seroquel intravenously carries the highest risk for overdose. It also increases the risk of transmission of HIV and hepatitis.

Seroquel might also be abused in combination with other substances such as cocaine. Mixing prescription medications with illicit drugs has been a common practice. Some people take the mix to enhance the intoxication effects from the illicit substances and lower their adverse effects. For example, Seroquel is, dangerously, mixed with cocaine to mitigate the dysphoria effects related to cocaine withdrawal.

Injecting the drug into the veins increases the risk of developing pulmonary complications. Moreover, Seroquel can amplify the cardiovascular and arrhythmogenic properties of cocaine.

Effects of Seroquel

Short-Term Effects

The first-generation antipsychotics have a larger number of side effects. But the atypical psychotics also come with a few side effects. A person taking Seroquel will experience these effects for about six hours. Common short-term side effects of Seroquel can include:

Fatigue

Dizziness

Dry mouth

Sore throat

Nervousness

Depression

Headache

Abdominal pain

Upset stomach

Irritability

Numbness in arms or legs

Missed menstrual periods

Increased appetite

Moreover, mixing Seroquel with alcohol comes with another set of side effects. Drinking alcohol while taking the antipsychotic can worsen the side effects of the drug and lead to:

Mood changes

Constipation

Nausea

Vomiting

Drowsiness

Lightheadedness

Fatigue

Changes in appetite

Weight changes

Changes in liver function

Long-Term Effects

The most common long-term effects of Seroquel include:

Sexual dysfunction

Increased risk of diabetes

Tardive dyskinesia

Weight gain

High cholesterol

Cataracts

Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

Thyroid problems

Seizures

Cardiac problems

Can You Overdose on Seroquel?

The Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) found that 39. 5% of total prescriptions in 2017 were written for Seroquel. The increase in Seroquel prescriptions has led to a rise in overdoses and problems with dependence. According to the US Drug Abuse Warning Network, there has been a 90% increase in the number of Seroquel-related emergency department visits between 2005 and 2011.⁴ It was found that the recreational use of the drug poses health risks for users, especially women and polydrug users.

Although the drug has positive effects for people with mental illness, recreational use is dangerous. Injecting Seroquel has many risks associated with it, including increased risk for HIV and hepatitis transmission.

Seroquel blocks histamine, muscarinic, and alpha receptors. An overdose might lead to CNS depression, tachycardia, orthostatic hypotension, or delirium.⁵

The most common symptoms of a Seroquel overdose include:

• Drowsiness
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Seizure
• Fainting

Apart from overdosing, other life-threatening side effects include delirium, seizures, and cardiac dysrhythmias.

How Do I Stop Using Seroquel?

People who have been taking Seroquel for a prolonged period and in high doses will experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop. The most common side effects might include:

Irritability

Anxiety

Insomnia

Nausea

Headache

Diarrhea

Vomiting

Dizziness

Hypersensitivity

Mood swings

Difficulty sleeping

Suicidal thoughts

The best method for getting clean is entering a substance abuse rehab center and undergoing detox, where a team of medical professionals can care for the person in recovery and attend to their needs.

What are the Withdrawal Symptoms of Seroquel?

Regular use of Seroquel for a long period of time can lead to a discontinuation syndrome. Antipsychotic discontinuation syndrome is the set of symptoms that may happen when a person:

• Suddenly stops taking an antipsychotic, or
• Drastically lowers the dose

According to the International Journal of Mental Health Counseling, nearly 40% of people who stop taking antipsychotics may experience discontinuation syndrome. ⁶ The symptoms generally appear within the first few days after stopping. They tend to be the most severe one week after stopping and fade away after that.

Discontinuation symptoms have been reported to happen very often and can include:

Headaches

Insomnia

Dizziness

Irritability

Nausea and vomiting

Diarrhea

The withdrawal symptoms of Seroquel vary significantly from person to person. They depend on the doses taken, the period of time, and the method of use.

For example, a person who has been taking low doses of the drug might experience minimal withdrawal symptoms that might last a week or two. If the person has been taking higher doses for a longer time, the symptoms might be more severe.

Additional factors could be at play, including the person’s underlying mental health issues.

The best treatment involves tapering the dose slowly under the supervision of a medical professional. Gradual withdrawal over a period of one to two weeks is recommended.

Treatment for Seroquel Addiction

Co-occurring Disorder Treatment

In some people, addiction is the result of an underlying mental health issue. In others, addiction develops first, and mental health symptoms appear later. Sometimes, mental health symptoms may be worsened by drug use.

Although there is no one cause for addiction, a mental health issue may increase the likelihood of developing an addiction and vice versa.

People who are suffering from an addiction and a mental health problem should seek treatment for a co-occurring disorder. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, this type of treatment can:

• Lower the relapse rate
• Reduce the number of suicide attempts
• Lead to long-term sobriety

Many rehab centers offer an integrated approach to co-occurring disorder treatment. Patients receive all the medical, therapeutic, and holistic care they need to heal mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Staff members at these treatment centers have specialized training and qualifications for dual diagnosis treatment. They possess the knowledge and experience to help patients achieve long-term health.

Medical Detox

A person suffering from an addiction will experience a range of withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug. This is known as the detox period, and it may last a few days or a couple of weeks. These withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable, harmful, and even life-threatening, and medical detox at a rehab center is recommended. People who enter a medical detox facility can withdraw from drugs safely in a comfortable and secure environment.

Inpatient Care

Inpatient care lasts anywhere from 21 days to several months. It’s a suitable treatment option for people who are battling with a severe case of addiction. They will be monitored 24/7 by a team of medical professionals who understand addiction and its underlying issues. Patients will live on-site and attend a wide range of activities, including:

• 12-step meetings
• One-on-one therapy sessions
• Group therapy sessions

There’s a broad array of inpatient centers to choose from, ranging from those that use the 12-step method to those that offer a more holistic approach. However, all types of centers have the same focus, and that is to help the patient learn healthier habits, attitudes, and behaviors.

Outpatient Care

Outpatient care is intended for people who are suffering from a milder form of addiction. It’s also more suitable for patients who have a safe place to live in, and who have other people to attend to their needs. If the person requires minimal care and has daily responsibilities they can’t miss, then outpatient care is the best option.

A person receiving outpatient treatment lives off-site but comes to the rehab center for on-site meetings. Similar to inpatient care, the patient participates in 12-step meetings and one-on-one therapy sessions. Depending on the rehab center, they might also attend holistic classes such as meditation and yoga.

Aftercare

Before leaving inpatient/outpatient treatment, patients are encouraged to work with a therapist to develop an aftercare plan. The purpose of an aftercare plan is to help patients maintain their sobriety, find purpose in life, and create healthy relationships with themselves, friends, and family.

Although each person receives a customized plan, some common components of a typical aftercare treatment plan include:

Ongoing counseling

Family therapy

Participation in a 12-step or alternative support group

Vocational rehabilitation

Educational assistance

Legal assistance

Maintenance medication

Relapse prevention programming

Key Takeaways

Seroquel belongs to the class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics. The drugs were initially invented as a safer alternative to first-generation antipsychotics. However, recent studies and reports suggest an alarming increase in their off-label use. Seroquel has been named as the most commonly abused atypical antipsychotic.

Seroquel abuse is related to its potent sedative effect rather than its euphoric effects. When it’s used for recreational/self-medication purposes without medical supervision, it can result in adverse side effects, including potential substance abuse and dependence.

People who are taking the drug must follow their doctor’s recommendations precisely. If a Seroquel addiction develops, the safest way to long-term abstinence is medical detox and comprehensive inpatient/outpatient care. Ongoing recovery efforts, including aftercare, are also critical for a successful and long-term recovery.

This information should not replace a visit to a doctor or treatment center. If you are concerned that you or your loved one might be suffering from Seroquel addiction, ask for professional help today.

Resources

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5348850/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3819904/
3. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/DAWN2k11ED/DAWN2k11ED/DAWN2k11ED.htm
4. Sarah L. Anderson and Joseph P. Vande Griends, “Quetiapine for insomnia: A review of the literature,” American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, Vol. 71, March 2014
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4444129/
6. https://journals.lww.com/em-news/fulltext/2012/11000/toxicology_rounds__atypical_antipsychotic.7.aspx

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Alcohol

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• Alcoholism in Your Twenties
• Alcohol Awareness Month
• Autism and Alcohol
• How to Stop Binge Drinking
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Benzodiazepines

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Opiates

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• Opiates vs. Opioids

Opioids

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• Opioid Addiction
• Opioid Abuse
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Antipsychotics: what is this drug, how does it work, signs of use, consequences, addiction treatment

Antipsychotics – what is it?

Antipsychotics are drugs used by psychiatrists to treat various mental disorders, such as schizophrenia. These drugs have an inhibitory and calming effect on the central nervous system. They help to eliminate various affective disorders – pathological excitations, expressed in the form of hallucinatory seizures, delirium, mental automatisms and other manifestations of psychosis.

In modern psychiatry, antipsychotics are used to treat the following disorders:

• schizophrenia;
• depressions;
• schizoaffective, obsessive-compulsive, bipolar disorders.

Once in the human body, antipsychotics begin to affect dopamine brain structures. In those systems in which the main neurotransmitter is dopamine, they inhibit the transmission of nerve impulses.

Antipsychotics: effect

The effect of neuroleptics on the body of a person suffering from a severe mental disorder is expressed as follows:

• the psyche stabilizes, the delirium and hallucinations disappear;
• going through depression;
• brain activity improves, brain activity increases;
• problems with falling asleep disappear.