Long-term use of quetiapine may increase the risk of certain side effects or complications. Some of the potential long-term side effects of quetiapine include:
- Metabolic changes: Quetiapine can cause metabolic changes, such as weight gain, high blood sugar, and changes in cholesterol levels. These changes may increase the risk of developing diabetes or other health problems.
- Movement disorders: Long-term use of quetiapine can increase the risk of developing movement disorders, such as tardive dyskinesia, a condition characterized by involuntary movements of the face, tongue, and limbs.
- Cardiovascular effects: Quetiapine can cause changes in heart rate and blood pressure, which may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular problems.
- Neurological effects: Long-term use of quetiapine can affect the nervous system and may cause symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, or seizures.
- Tolerance and dependence: Long-term use of quetiapine can lead to tolerance, which means that higher doses of the medication may be needed to achieve the same therapeutic effect. It can also lead to dependence, which means that withdrawal symptoms may occur if the medication is stopped abruptly.
- Cognitive effects: Long-term use of quetiapine may affect cognitive function, including memory, attention, and decision-making abilities.
It is important to discuss any concerns about long-term side effects of quetiapine with a healthcare provider, who can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual needs and medical history. Regular monitoring and screening for potential side effects may also be recommended for individuals taking quetiapine for extended periods of time.
There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.
You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:
- The British National Formulary (BNF)
- Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
- The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.
Search for PILs on websites like:
France
- ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr
Spain
- AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es
Germany
- BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de
Italy
For questions about your medication:
- Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist
France
- Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
- For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00
Belgium (French)
Switzerland (French)
- La Main Tendue: 143
- Website: 143.ch
Canada (French)
- Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
- Website: cpsquebec.ca
Spain
- Contact emergency number: 112
- For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717
Germany
- Contact emergency number: 112
- For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222
Italy
- Contact emergency number: 112
- For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284
Netherlands
- Contact emergency number: 112
- For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113
Portugal
- Contact emergency number: 112
- For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60