Hitoshi Nishimura / Getty Images

What is the most important information I should know about Seroqeul?

It works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain.

This minimizes dopamine activity and helps relieve symptoms of these conditions.

Woman with fingers pressed on temples, eyes closed

Hitoshi Nishimura / Getty Images

Common Side Effects of Seroquel

Along with its therapeutic effects, Seroquel can sometimes cause side effects.

Some side effects will have symptoms that you’re able to see or feel.

Serious Side Effects

In some cases, more serious side effects may occur.

Some of these include:

Seroquel can increase the amount of a hormone called prolactin.

In some cases, this may interrupt menstruation or breastfeeding.

It can also cause decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction.

Long-term exposure to elevated prolactin levels can increase the risk for osteoperosis and bone fractures.

These medications may lead to potentially fatal heart rhythm problems if they are combined with Seroquel.

Seroquel has a half-life of around six hours.

This means that it takes around six hours for half of the dose to be eliminated from your body.

U.S. Food & Drug Administration.Seroquel.

2018;2:CD000459.

2007;68(4):597-603. doi:10.4088/jcp.v68n0416

National Alliance on Mental Health.Quetiapine (Seroquel).