Most Commonly Prescribed Psychiatric medications: Seroquel or Quetiapine

Quetiapine offers some benefits over other dopamine blocking medications. It has a much lower risk for EPS and a broad spectrum of effects. The main limitations are weight gain, sedation, and orthostasis. The extended-release formulation offers a once nightly dosing that can reduce daytime sedation.
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All content is created for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911. We do not endorse any specific treatment, tests, or procedures. Reliance on this information is solely at your own risk.

[@Roatanlova68fmp71lliiiak]

Quietapine, because you can't be depressed when you sleep all the time!

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I know, not a good solution to the problem. With quetiapine it’s a mixed bag some patients I’ve had respond very well to the medication and do not experience significant sedation or lack of energy to perform their daily activities. I’ve run into other things like dry mouth and weight gain more often with quetiapine use. With the extended release you can do once nightly dosing which should help with daytime sedation. Things like cariprazine and lurasidone may be better options for bipolar depression but difficult to get covered by insurance.

[@Roatanlova68fmp71lliiiak]

@@ShrinksInSneakers it worked well for my bi polar friend, in fact it didn't even make him particularly tired. He developed one huge pudding/sweet addiction though! As for me, I ended up being diagnosed with ADHD which ended a lifetime of being treated for depression/anxiety . I was able to stop venlafaxene and quetiapine which made me feel human again (after the horrors of withdrawal!) and Elvanse made my brain, and life, monumentally better. Even now, if I take a supplement or something that hones in on serotonin uptake prevention I start to feel ill and less focused. Have so much respect for you and your profession, it can't be an easy job finding out what works for individuals. Your channel is fascinating, thank you.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

@@Roatanlova68fmp71lliiiak It’s a really great point about the importance of diagnosis and making sure you have the correct diagnosis before using a medication. Glad to hear it worked out well for you. Venlafaxine has the worst withdrawal syndrome and it’s significantly more lethal in overdoses than other antidepressants, I don’t use it very often unless someone is already on it and wants to continue. I appreciate the comments and I’m happy to answer any other questions.

[@Allan-mf1he]

jip. who got the time to fix real problems just wack it with a pil. See disable the person disable the problem no?

[@Allan-mf1he]

Witchcraft the lot of it.

[@hugomartinez536]

I took 500mg of seroquel everyday for about 2 years. Worst time of my life. I would go to sleep at 8pm and wake up at 1pm the next day and still feel tired. I managed to reduce the medication overtime and today I’m off those med and very healthy. Ever since I started running, I feel much better. Running changed my life

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

There is no side effects to a healthy diet and exercise routine.

[@hugomartinez536]

@@ShrinksInSneakers it’s unfortunate my psychiatrists never suggested me to do this. They should’ve insisted in the importance of regular exercising as much as the importance of taking meds.

[@aronjohnson2553]

Seroquel is evil. But they will never tell you that. Poison pills

[@ifrankensteinsmonster]

500 mg Quetiapine is much much less sedating, so you were just having a nocebo effect

[@hugomartinez536]

@@ifrankensteinsmonsteri believe we tested it. I was not reacting well

[@jimboslice4468]

This video really eased my mind and was so so helpful in understanding my prescription. Just finally seen a psychiatrist after years of GPs telling me I was depressed and anxious. I was previously on 40mg Fluoxetine and 50 mg XR Quetiapine (aimed at targeting depression and anxiety) but having finally seen the psychiatrist they think it's more likely to be bipolar disorder and I've been put on 300mg, My highs feel great and I'm hyper productive but don't sleep well and so it's more the lows I'd been visiting my doctor to talk about and so that's probably where the misdiagnoses have come from (combination of me typically feeling that my highs were good and not anything I should concern my doctor with and my doctor not asking about me having highs). I've since been browsing the internet and been reading that typically the bpd range is 400mg-800mg but hearing you say that the 300mg dose is particularly effective for the depressive side of the disorder makes total sense considering that my lows are definitely more prolonged and cause more damaging behaviour than my highs. So thanks very much.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Appreciate the comment and the feedback on what has been working and not working for you. I always learn a lot reading and responding to comments on my channel. let me know if I can assist in any other way.

[@empowerminds352]

I have been on Quetiapine (25mg) for almost 12 days. Needed to watch this video.

[@DNYS8N]

Zombie, listlessness, and quit music, hobbies, and pretty much anything other than exercise and work. Eating is basically only joy. But I’m doing the treatment of 150 mg qd and Wellbutrin 300md QD Lab is generally not ordered at all unless patient requests it. Plus seldom is a GDR ordered, sad. I live between 4p-8:30. I get better sleep. I can still work and exercise but not much more. I shut down if I don’t have clear instructions or it requires much thought. It fixed by Quiet BPD and makes me easier to live with. The biggest Biggest BIGGEST difference is I don’t care as much. I don’t get upset that certain needs are not met, the grass is overgrown, things aren’t done, and I can’t play music anymore. Never surrender - I hope to find a way around this subdued lifestyle

[@RSE]

Hello, I wanted to ask you a question. I've seen it mentioned a couple of times in forums, but not a whole lot. Do you have any inclination as to why on Quetiapine (300MG-600MG) I have these symptoms of over heating. I know Seroquel can affect heat regulation. But this is more than just feeling too hot. When I wear a coat or go for a fast paced walk, or am in a hot room, I get these pin pricks all over my body. Its very painful. Its like pins and needles, or prickly heat. It gets worse and worse until i rapidly remove all my layers, or get out of a hot room. Its very uncomfortable and I dont know what to do about it. Seroquel is the only medication thats worked for my condition.

[@vickikaravas8774]

Yes it heats my body up too. Thought I had a fever. But didn't. Does anyone get flu like symptoms aswell, that comes and goes?

[@joyfullone3968]

I appreciated this video, thank you! I have been taking Quetiapine 100mg and Venlafaxine ER 150 mg since I think around 2017. I am older. I suffered with Bipolar 1 disorder for many years being hospitalized for both Mania and Depression too many times. The medicines I am now on have kept me very stable. I have gained considerable weight though mostly because of craving sweets. I also feel like I have decreased motivation. I get my medications prescribed from a GP here in Charlotte, NC. I wondered if I should perhaps be seeing a psychiatrist for the meds for the Bipolar Disorder. I am thankful for these meds as I finally have mood stability. Again thank you very much.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I think it's always helpful to have an expert in a field evaluate you and review your medications. Antidepressants in bipolar I disorder are often mood destabilizing and I generally try to avoid them as they can lead to rapid cycling and mixed episodes. If I do consider an antidepressant it's only after a mood stabilizer has been optimized. These are a few of my thoughts based on what you described. All the best

[@ASMR-XI-ZUI]

I also take both quetiapine and venlafaxine. It helps reduce the psychosis and delusions with schizoeffective disorder. However it does make me very agoraphobic and reluctant to leave home.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

@@ASMR-XI-ZUI I always recommend continuing to socialize as much as possible. Many people struggling with mental health issues isolate themselves, and feel lonely. This is where partial care programs can be a big help as they provide therapy and a social outlet. Hope this helps. . If you haven’t subscribed to the channel, please do and spread the word about what we are doing here. We also have daily content on Instagram @Shrinks_In_Sneakers

[@shuellegodinezfaroque905]

Increasing my XR dose to 300mg was a night and day difference. More activating than sedating and my appetite is suppressed. I’m so glad I didn’t give up on this medication my anxiety and depression is also gone

[@jimboslice4468]

Can I ask how long those positive effects have persisted and how often you have ups and downs, I've just been told to start a slow increase from 50mg up 300mg everyday and was looking to hear someone's experience

[@giulianacr2638]

Can any of you function at work while on this medication? 😩 I feel miserable during the day while on it

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I love some positive responses on this channel we often get negative comments about problems with medications and poor outcomes. It's always refreshing to hear from someone who got better. I'm so happy for you

[@joeking433]

@@giulianacr2638 I worked fine for 17 years on it.

[@aronjohnson2553]

This drug will end up killing you. It's horrible

[@SpiritualShamann]

The best antipsychotic ever

[@SpacexWitch]

First time taking seroquel was a 200mg pill, it made me hallucinate for an hour at least it felt like. Saw an old man with no eyes floating between my bed and another, he had no limbs, but a top hat and cane, which floated in front of him. The walls looked wavy, like they were breathing, and I couldn’t sleep because I felt so out of it. Now I take 25mg for sleep and depression and no problems 😁

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Lowest effective dose in the way to go. Appreciate you sharing your story

[@MeGotNoFeelings]

Me2 i always see nightmares with is pill

[@lyndayates7533]

It causes what it's supposed to treat. That happened to me too twice.

[@aronjohnson2553]

Seroquel is poison

[@ThePodgeiscool]

I've been taking Quetiapine Xr for 2 years and it has been very helpful. Also this video is very informative, thank you. Is there any data on sub 300mg doses? I value being productive and motivated so I want to find the lowest mg to take while being safe

[@cindywright14]

My husband is on 500 mg of Seroquel was taken 200 mg of Wellbutrin he’s been on Seroquel for probably about 17 months then Wellbutrin for about six months started getting these dizzy spells at first they were just about every two weeks or so and then Istarted increasing and then they were daily sometimes more than once and this time they happen with shaking possible seizures he says his head his ear stops up and he feels kind of like an outer body experience he gets really weak all over and if he’s got something in his hands he will drop them. OK fast forward we have now weaned off of Wellbutrin today is day nine off of the medication sadly he’s still doing this. OK two days ago we started the wean on Seroquel so far we dropped 50 mg so now he’s at 4:50 for the last two days sadly I know this is one that we can’t just come off of fast what is the best way to wean off of this?

[@stidhamhimer]

Am struggling right now after accidentally induced serotonin syndrome. Im trying to understand why the seroquel isnt calming me like it usually does, and this video did a great job of pointing out all the serotonin activity here… have watched a lot of videos today and yours was the best. Made me feel calmer, thank you

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Thanks I appreciate the love, mental health treatment is not easy but I believe you will get better. Hope this helps, if you haven’t subscribed to the channel please do so and spread the word about what we are doing here.

[@deigamohamed707]

Thanks

[@blbrightlights564]

Do you think medication should be adjusted to a persons weight?I've got bipolar and for yrs now have been on 50mg seraqual,450 lithium and 150mg lamital. This combo is working really well for me.l weigh 100 ins we did a lot of changing things around for 2 yrs. I feel so many people are over medicated and feel awful. I think these meds need fine tuning for the individual.thank you for your vids very informative.👍

[@nothingtozayofficial5066]

I have been on Quetiapine for 4 months now, My psychiatrist prescribed me this medication for my BPD and PTSD. First day I took this it knocked me out to sleep and then the next day my husband noticed that I was a bit dopey. But it went away and up to now I don't have any bad side effects. I take Sertraline 200mg and 3 X 25mg Quetiapine.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

This is an important point that you bring up, many early side effects are transient. I usually suggest people wait, wait, and wait some more when it comes to early side effects. At some point you need to treat the side effects if they do not go away but it's best to leave that option until you are sure the side effects will remain constant. I'm glad you were able to tolerate the medication and have had success with the combination. I appreciate the comment.

[@jackson24241000]

I’ve just started on 25mg at night, I’m on 600mg of pregabalin, and 400mg of sertraline, been on them for 8 years.

[@millstreetteut7835]

Do you take 3 of the immediate release ones ?

[@gregborland5668]

400 Sertraline am only on 200 thought that’s the max dose

[@joeking433]

Yeah, 200mg seems to be the sweet spot.

[@user-ui2mk2no1f]

Can I take Amitriptyline 25mg if I take Carvedilol 6.25mg a day and 50 mg of Losartan. My liver isnt working so hot because my portal vein measures 13mm in width, but the enzymes are of normal values?

[@giulianacr2638]

It's not really helpful for ptsd/depressive patients like me, some of my phobias and intrusive thoughts got worse. I just felt more hopeless which is a really sad and traumatic thing to go through. It helps with sleep and anxiety though so I plan to talk with my doctor to just take it at night if it's possible so I can be productive during the day.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

This would not be my first choice for the treatment of depression or PTSD. While it canoe used in the 150-300 mg/day range as adjunctive treatment for depression, it does have side effects and risk. The only thing that helps with PTSD is trauma focused psychotherapy. If the primary drive for the depressed mood is trauma it's best to find a good trauma focused psychotherapist. Hope this helps, if you haven't subscribed to the channel please do and spread the word about what we are doing here.

[@tjfromreno]

I take 200 XR and 200 regular at night. I’m having great results. A little groggy in the morning but no biggie.

[@simonquantock4334]

Hi what abut vivid dreams ?Please should we understand anything from the dreams ?

[@helenbennett4391]

I have been on this medication fir many years. Yes, it has helped me in many ways. I started at 800mg, but was tapered down to 200mg. Unfortunately, i fo believe it has affected my eyesight, including cataracts. Also weight gain . Hope this was helpful .

[@esphie15]

Hello, my father is taking quetiapine for almost a month, at first he was prescribed 50mg 25mg in the morning and 25mg at night. During first 2 weeks, he seems well, he started smiling, (slight progress) but the delusions still there. Now the doctor gave a higher dose, not to high. 37.50mg am and 50mg at night, but he still anxious, he still has negative thoughts, he thought he might die or someone will harm him. (He had stroke recently and the memory is really poor. His doctor still hasnt diagnose if its vascular dementia. Hopefully, time will come quetiapine will work on him , just to calm him.to ease the agitation..🥲 sorry for the long post.

[@LoveFlatfootin1]

Quetiapine 225 mg (not time release) has worked great as monotherapy for bipolar 2 mood stability, depression and insomnia. No unplanned weight gain on this dose and no major side effects.

[@joeking433]

Yeah, Quetiapine never made me gain weight. I even lost weight.

[@erniellerena]

I started having delusions about bugs crawling on me. I would feel like I was getting bit by something. My doctor prescribed Seroquel for it. I was diagnosed with BPD and social anxiety disorder and I am currently taking Depakote, Wellbutrin and I have been tapering off Cymbalta now down to 30 mg a day. I have been prescribed Venlafaxine but I haven't started it. My psychiatrist prescribe that medication because I felt drowsy throughout the day and a lack of energy to do anything. Tapering off Cymbalta has been very difficult for me. I started feeling very depressed and hopeless. After taking Seroquel for two week I no longer feel like I'm getting bitten by bugs or that crawling sensation in the back of my head like I had before. I haven't felt this good in a long time. It's only been 3 days but every time I come into work I feel much better and I do not feel so agitated and stressed anymore like before. I was worried at first about Seroquel because of the weight gain and because I am diabetic. I'm going to start going to the gym answer to eat better so I don't gain no more weight.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I would give it some time, although I try to avoid Seroquel in cases where metabolic dysfunction already exists. However, if it's helping with symptoms and you are more functional you need to carefully weigh the risks and benefits. I wish you the best

[@aleta1986]

It was that crawling on me feeling that was the worse. I take 100 mg of Zoloft, 450 mg of buproprion, 800 mg of quentiapine, and 200 mg of lamotrigine. It's a lot but it helps a lot

[@erniellerena]

@@ShrinksInSneakers yeah I stopped taking a Seroquel. I just couldn't function very well it would leave me really drowsy the next day.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

@@erniellerena Everyone is different and when we provide evidence from randomized controlled trials they are generalities and may not apply to every case. Best of luck on your mental health journey

[@demsticks4771]

You are not having. Delusions it’s demons and astral parasites that are crawling in you I was diagnosed with skizifrinic because a demon was following me and I can feel bugs on me, the bugs are astral parasites that break your aura so the demons can try posses you and the doctors and mental health institutions I had the ability to see demons most of the doctors and mental health staff are being controlled by spirits and the pills take away your ability makes it harder to ask god for help and close your 3rd eye and demons can stay in you forever if you keep taking it

[@juuk3103]

I had servere depression and was lucky if i got 1 hour of sleep in 24 hours, i just couldn't fall asleep and it was driving me nuts got Oxazepam on a low dose to start for the sleep part but it did nothing for me, so instead of going for a higher dose i got Quetiapine (100mg) instead and it helped a little, just here to learn about my medication. Sleep deprivation is the worst thing i ever experienced literally torture!

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I appreciate the comment and you sharing the story. I’ve covered orexin based medications in another video which may be of interest to you. I’m not the biggest fan of using quetiapine for sleep alone but as an adjunctive treatment for depression or for bipolar disorder it’s a reasonable option. Hope this helps, if you haven’t subscribed to the channel please do and spread the word about what we are doing here

[@juuk3103]

@@ShrinksInSneakers Thanks for the response i will definitely check your other videos out!

[@joeking433]

Yeah! I went off Seroquel and I couldn't sleep for a week! It was a nightmare. So I went back on it.

[@sarassem1796]

I had the same thing. Could not sleep more than 1 hour. Actually i used to shut down for 1 hour. And amitriptiline saved me than. Now i can sleep but i wake up exhausted. I even get leg cramps during the night. Quatiapine gives me deep well rested sleep, but i started to feel my heart pounding heavier, not sure if quatiapine can cause this.

[@iKam1Kaz1]

Ill add I was planning to try discontinue using seroquel as I assumed my other meds had me in a stable mind set but quickly started experience mania so Ive had to keep it as part of my treatment plan

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I had some good success with this medication for my bipolar depression patients. One option is to not come off the medication completely but to come down to the lowest effective dose. Taper down until some symptoms occur and adjust accordingly. It’s nice to get completely off medication but sometimes it’s not possible, I think this offers a nice option in between. Hope this helps

[@iKam1Kaz1]

@@ShrinksInSneakers thanks yeah this helps. Ill bring it up with my doctors and work it out from there.

[@matiche]

​@@ShrinksInSneakerswhat is the lowest dosage possible? & how long do you have to be on the lowest dosage before you can just stop ?

[@mohammadkhadra2604]

Can you please do a video on Zyprexa?

[@LiftingStress]

My psychiatrist prescrided Seroquel for anxiety but I'm scared to take it because I don't see much research or reviews for it reducing anxiety. I've taken Neurontin, Lamictal, Cymbalta DR, Zoloft, Paxil, Prozac, Wellbutrin, Celexa, Buspar, Effexor XR, Vistaril, Atarax, Depakote. Oddly Trazodone 25-50 mg reduced my anxiety but Klonopin greatly reduce my anxiety and prevents panic attacks. I wish those aforementioned meds would reduce just half of my anxiety. Is this my psychiatrist's last attempt to see what works by going so far to presrcibe an antipsychotic for anxiety?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Seroquel actually works really well for anxiety with effect sizes as high as 1.2 (thats high incase you were wondering). The issue is there are more side effects than the other medications you described here. I have a few videos on treatment of anxiety disorders and I discuss the use of seroquel in those videos, it might be worth a watch.

[@LiftingStress]

@@ShrinksInSneakers Thank you for responding. That's encouraging to know that seroquel can reduce anxiety. I'll definatelly watch your other videos on an anxiety. I took the 50 mg prescribed and I slept well but was drowsy for nearly 12 hrs. I understand this is normal when starting seroquel.

[@oopalonga]

I've absolutely seen people develop EPS on Seroquel. It might take a little longer than say it does haldol but it nevertheless happens. Thank you for the video

[@monarc200]

What is EPS

[@oopalonga]

@@monarc200 extra pyramidal side effects. Involuntary movements like twitches and tremors

[@joeking433]

@@oopalonga I've been on Seroquel for 17 years and don't have any EPS that I know of.

[@oopalonga]

@@joeking433 you're lucky :) assuming that you've been on a decent dose

[@joeking433]

@@oopalonga 200mg

[@madison-bl4qr]

I have been struggling with severe anxiety that has made me get tunnel vision and feel extremely faint. I have tried Lexapro and Zoloft and both did not work right for me. I would take Hydroxyzine as needed but it didn’t really stop my severe symptoms. I just got a prescription for Effexor daily and 12.5 mg of Seroquel to take as needed. I really hope it works for me, I’m worried about it being too sedative. Is it common for people to be prescribed Seroquel for anxiety?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Very good question. Seroquel works well for anxiety the problem is the side effects. The studies are good and indicate a benefit, but patients need to be aware of the potential side effects and the risks before starting the medication. I think my approach here would be to leave it up to the patient to decide if they are okay with the potential risks and make a point to remove the Seroquel once the venlafaxine is dosed properly. In general, it’s not common to use Seroquel if the only diagnosis is an anxiety disorder. If you haven’t subscribed already, please do, and spread the word about what we are doing here.

[@ljnv]

How are you doing now

[@aletalykes1986]

When misdiagnosed with major depressive disorder I took 100 mg a day in divided doses. Completely ineffective. But after getting a better diagnosis of bipolar disorder with psychosis/schizo affective disorder the 800 mg dose is great. 100 mg in the morning and afternoon and 600 mg before bed. I work night shift with rotating days off so it makes things a little difficult. I also take Zoloft, Wellbutrin, and Lamictal as well. Seems like a lot but it’s keeping me from the extreme manic phases. However, your info came right on time to learn the medications mechanism of action. Great job!

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Appreciate the comment and I need to talk about lamictal at some point. It's a good choice as it can help with the depressive phase of bipolar I disorder. Let me know if I can answer any additional questions.

[@galatea742]

@@ShrinksInSneakers I would love to see a video on lamotrigine too!

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

@@galatea742 for sure this a good one

[@aronjohnson2553]

Wow, they really got their pharma hooks in you. Very sad what this country does to its people. That cocktail of drugs is insane. Seroquel alone is poison.

[@aronjohnson2553]

@@ShrinksInSneakers seroquel is poison. Very disgusting what doctors do to people.

[@jaikai4989]

Just got put in Quitipine today finnalt my ptsd and mental health is getting taken seriously I’m sick of been depressed and sick of been so tired and not getting more then a few hours max sleep and feeling like a jittery paranoid mess. Please let me get some well needed rest 🙏

[@B1055BH]

I was just prescribed this after having a kind of wild past 3 months. I was on stage playing bass in the church band and all the sudden felt like I was going to pass out. That led to my heart beating like crazy and getting tunnel vision and weak knees, etc. I got my heart checked out, it’s at 100%. After a month or 2 of the sharp panic episodes, I now feel like I’m not in my own body a lot. Like, my thoughts and knowledge and memory is all in my brain, what are these arms and legs and torso for? No one in my family is schizophrenic or bipolar and I’ve never hallucinated or heard any voices or anything. I’m on lexipro (5mg) and buprenorphine (2mg). Am I just freaking myself out and being too scared that I’m gonna pass out? (I’ve never passed out or fainted). I want to get back on stage and play!

[@marioncarbonell6047]

Same thing happened to me after taking this medicine, I have dpdr and anhedonia and after taking this medicine, it just made my dpdr worse, I can’t stay grounded or focused, I feel like a robot, my mind is blank 24/7, I constantly get panic attacks, I can’t feel my limbs or head, I feel like my thoughts aren’t my own, it’s frightening, I’ve only been taking it for 3 days so maybe that’s why, but I really hope things don’t turn for the worse.

[@B1055BH]

@@marioncarbonell6047 I’m a few weeks in now and I think it’s FINALLY starting to work. We can do this!!!

[@marioncarbonell6047]

@@B1055BH gives me relief to know everything is working out for you, I hope the same occurs with me, good luck m8! Wish you the best.

[@B1055BH]

@@joeking433 been doing that the whole time. I’m doing better than when I made the first comment but not 100%

[@joeking433]

@@B1055BH God has shown me that Satan and his demons are real and they have real power so it's always smart to know what you're up against! Take care, bro!

[@mariamjaved2174]

I have been on 300mg on Quitiapene for almost 3 years. I’ve been trying to reduce the dose and I’m down to 100mg. In all honesty, this drug helped at first but overall I feel like it has robbed me of my life. I suffer with extreme sedation, it is setting me back in life. The tapering off has been the worst. I discussed coming off of this med with my Dr and she was against the idea and talking me into changing to Aripriprizole- that was a whole different nightmare! I was to be free from this drug so badly!

[@peggy4597]

How are you doing

[@mariamjaved2174]

@@peggy4597 I’m back on 200 of quitiapene and still hate the side effects. Coming off them was the most difficult 😞 I really despise having to take them but feel obligated to as my body is used to it and can’t love without it

[@peggy4597]

@@mariamjaved2174 I understand. It's kind of difficult. I was on only 32.5mg every night and went off from it as cold turkey. I couldn't handle it anymore because all day sleepy and no motivation. The problem now is sleeping, I spend like 2 hours on bed trying to sleep every night

[@mariamjaved2174]

@@peggy4597 how long have you been off? Yes I experienced the same, when I was off them completely I couldn’t sleep at all 😩 I’m just tired of being of them, hate the sedative feeling and weight gain but I’m stuck. Have you tried something to help you sleep ? Like temporary diazepam or sleeping aid?

[@peggy4597]

@@mariamjaved2174 yes. I understand the stuck feeling. It must be very hard for you. I've been off from them for around 3 months. Going to try to do more exercise and valerian root and see if it works. I have clonazepam, but I only take it if I'm having very bad anxiety.

[@cindywright14]

Is it safe to take Seroquel and Wellbutrin together?

[@fordford9133]

Is very helpfull when you in bad way

[@katiejefferies2297]

I’ve just been prescribed quetiapine and only been taking it for a week and I’ve been getting very bad migraines and I’m really struggling to do basic everyday activities like waking up for work, exercise and my body feels like I’m trying to run through water and I’m just sleeping all the time. It’s frustrating because I feel like I’m not being very productive and I’ve started a new job and I don’t feel like I’m giving off a good impression. I don’t know what’s worse feeling like I did prior to this medication or how I feel now when I’m taking it. Just feel like I’ve been taken over by something else and had my brain erased from everything.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

It's a medication with more side effects than others and sedation can be one of the worst. The dose may be an issue as it's more sedation at lower doses, I would talk with your doctor about the problems and try to find a solution. thanks for watching

[@afshan-ml8yq]

you said that psyciatrist prescribe 300 mg qutaipine foe deppression but mine prescribed only upto 50 mg once a day and continued it for like six months and then stopped it ,my question is why did he prescribed such a low dose more major deppressive disorder is there any other medical reason behind it ? please tell?

[@AE-yt4lx]

Is 25 mg at night for an elderly person with stroke and high agitation at night -- bad?

[@gregmoore7565]

This is a broad spectrum 'dirty drug'. Heart rhythm changes can occur immediately like Dysrhythmia, even at doses of 150mg. It's great for lowering BP for around 10 hours after taking. (140/90 ---->100/60) The tiredness the next day is variable. The dry mouth after taking it is certainly true.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

The term Dirty drug usually refers to the number of receptors it hits and it is true that quetiapine has lower affinity for D2 receptors and does hit several other receptors. The main risk with heart rhythm changes is prolonged QTc although its a slightly lower risk with quetiapine compared to some of the other dopamine blocking medications. A baseline EKG is not a bad idea in older patients and those with preexisting heart disease. Dry mouth is an issue sometime sugarless candy or gum can be helpful in those cases. Appreciate the comment

[@hoosierbaddy3052]

It’s not a dirty drug. It has saved countless lives. Yeah, it has side effects! But so does living and breathing crap air here. So’s some foods! So’s our stupid behaviors. But I ain’t going to stop taking it based on its side effects. AYKM?! It’s about today friend. Who TF knows if you or me will be here tomorrow. You’re assuming that you’re going to live past next week? Life is not guaranteed past any given moment. People are surprised and shocked by death for some reason. Under the delusion that their life is invincible . We’re in such denial about death that we use euphemistic terms to describe death. ‘He passed on’. Passed on the offer? ‘He didn’t make it’. To the finish line? Or as hospitals call it ‘a negative patient outcome’. Euphemisms soften the blow of the truth. Right? Bring yo self into the moment bc that’s all we have friend.

[@iKam1Kaz1]

Had a questioned about its abuse as its not always prescribed here or ill be questioned if i dont go to my primary doctor.Though you already answered that at the end of the vid

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

There is some abuse potential but I have not encountered it in the community. I think it's much lower than other drugs and would still consider using it for patients with a history of substance use as long as it's indicated

[@iKam1Kaz1]

@@ShrinksInSneakers Yeah from some research i did on it seemed to more indicate its abuse in say prisons so you can just sleep i guess?

[@piixeltune]

Thanks for this video! I just got prescribed seroquel 25mg once per day or as needed for anxiety. I have a family history of bipolar disorder so they wanted to try this instead of SSRIs. I’m really nervous to start it. Is there possibility to have side effects like hallucinations on this type of med? I read some comments here that people experienced it. I was informed of weight gain side effects and diabetes but don’t have a family history, so I’m gonna monitor it but not too worried. Thanks in advance for your time 😊

[@lv4313]

How did it go with the medication I was just prescribed

[@piixeltune]

@@lv4313I actually never ended up taking it, I got nervous because it’s an antipsychotic and i don’t have symptoms of psychosis. Good luck with it!

[@lv4313]

@@piixeltune Bru same I am afraid to take it but nothing works for me to sleep or to stay asleep I tried everything. I only have anxiety and insomnia but I just stay awake at night and not feel tired the next day it's been going on for weeks.i might be bipolar so it might help but I'd seen how long term in affects the brain a person might be normal and end up disabled in a few decades ☠️☠️☠️☠️☠️☠️

[@jlittle025]

Thanks for your time. Should I be taking 600 mg I.R. all at once at night? That's how I am prescribed. Diagnosed with Bipolar 1 Mixed and Chronic PTSD last year at 36 years old, and taking 600 mg Quetiapine at bedtime now which is the 4th medication along with 300mg Bupropion in the morning. Quetiapine is helping a lot. Before I had racing thoughts most of the time and could only sleep for 3 hours on average. This condition went on for 10 + years. I'm not sure if the Bupropion is helping but maybe, I just don't know like how it's obvious with the Quetiapine. Prior, what got me diagnosed was a really bad episode of Psychosis. Im also a combat vet. Thankfully I have not had Psychosis since. It involved paranoia of middle eastern people (I didn't feel this way out of Psychosis state) and visually seeing some people as demons, righteous, lost souls, and others were just people. No change for them. I have one older brother and he was diagnosed with Bipolar 1 in 2008.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I usually use the XR version if the dosing is once daily and I will divide the IR into equal BID dosing once you go above 400mg/day. I have seen people dose the IR all at night and I think it largely depends on patient preference some feel too sedated during the day if the medication is used twice daily. This combination of medications is one I've used before and although I'm not the biggest fan of antidepressants in bipolar disorder bupropion was the one that seems to be the least destabilizing. I loved my time at the VA and it was a pleasure working with all the Vets. If you haven't subscribed to the channel please do and spread the word about what we are doing here

[@natalieparker9710]

I took 25mg of Seroquel as a prn for anxiety and it had a great effect on me. I felt really confident and got a lot done. I was pacing around my kitchen feeling really happy. Woke up the next morning excited to take it again. This time no effect. Now when I take it it feels like I'm not taking anything at all. How could this be??

[@natalieparker9710]

The only thing I can think of is if I forgot to take my abilify the morning that I took seroquel for the first time. Would that matter?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Great question what I can say is seroquel is very effective for anxiety disorders. It beats antidepressants when it comes to generalized anxiety disorder. To give you an idea the effect size is around 0.8 which is very high for a psychiatric medication. The reason the FDA did not approve it for anxiety disorders is the side effect profile. The reason you did well is because it works awesome for anxiety. Hope this helps, if you haven't subscribed to the channel please do and spread the word about what we are doing here

[@zrtknl]

Touching upon what you said at 4:15, what is a high enough total dosage before seeing some effects for a first time seroquel 25mg user? I'm on day 9 so far. I'm pairing it with Prozac 10mg.

[@matiche]

So what ended up happening for taking both?

[@zrtknl]

I stopped after taking about 14 doses because I didn't think it would work but a few days after that I woke up with about a 50 % reaction.@@matiche

[@spyromatt]

Doc, I've been using 12.5mg (25mg cut in half) during bedtime and it makes me sleep well. The problem is when I wake up, cognitive impairment and diminished physical strength + alertness are what's troubling me as I am not able to stick to my daytime schedule and be productive. Any great tips doc on how to mitigate this and weight gain?? Also, is it true that the higher the dose, the lesser the side effects? That's why I'm really confused if I should cut the 25mg by 4 to minimize side effects or what? --- Btw, I have tried every psychiatric medication RX by my psych. and even tried ECT 3 years back. It'll be great if you can advise me on how to mitigate the aforementioned side effects. Thank you doc in advance.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

At lower doses the receptors targeted are different. You are essentially taking advantage of the side effect profile of the medication. That is why lower doses are more sedating. A slight increase to 50 mg may help but I can’t say for sure every person will respond differently. It will also depend on the reason behind using this medication. If it’s just for sleep, I would consider another option even though you mentioned several other medication trials. If the use is as an adjunctive treatment for depression, then 150 mg to 300 mg daily may reduce some of the side effects. I would run it by your doctor and see what options you have. Appreciate the comment

[@spyromatt]

@@ShrinksInSneakers Thank you so much dr. for giving your professional thoughts on this. Seroquel is the only Rx that worked in giving me a well rested sleep. I've tried Clonazepam and Alprazolam on which I always get the hungover on the next day. I'll try the 50mg dosage @ bedtime and hope it works. I've tried before the 150mg dose, but it just totally made my cognitive/critical thinking be close to being blank (definitely felt dumb and would even get lost direction-wise). Thank you dr. for accomodating as now it's difficult to set an appointment to a psych in my location due to Covid restrictions.

[@joeking433]

How was the ECT? My grandmother and aunt were given ECT treatment and I've had their depression but no ECT.

[@Hussain9077]

Hi Dr Rossi , how are you doing , I wanted to ask you about your thoughts on this medication for sleep , thank you in advance.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

It should not be used if the only indication is insomnia. It has too many side effects. It does improve sleep but there are safer options. If it's being used as an adjunctive treatment for depression or in bipolar I/II depression and it helps with sleep great then I'm fine with it. For insomnia alone it's not first line. Hope this helps

[@matiche]

​@@ShrinksInSneakerswhat if it no longer helps you sleep? They told me just to help me eat.. primarily.. but it can also help me with my sleeping and anxiety so I can get some rest at night... sleep anxiety But honestly by now I'm not sure what it's helping. It does not help me sleep anymore.. I think the melatonin I've been doping myself up with is what's really been helping me with my sleep plus anxiety as a result .. plus I take melatonin on my own during the day to also help with anxiety since they never gave me a day time anxiety medication & I don't think being able to eat is an issue anymore as my body is trying to force me to having 4 to 5 meals per day .. especially since I've been doing physical therapy.. I would love to not take hospital drugs unless it's proscribed vitamins only plus cbd .. natural remedies with less side effects.. yes I know about cbd side effects and having too little or too much of certain vitamins.. I also know there's about 10 If not eleven different vitamins that I can take to help with anxiety and depression

[@lisanewberry560]

Abilify caused compulsive behavior, son still on haldol 7.5 mg with seroquel 50 mg He was wide awake for 2 days This is not common? Took him off immediately Ok. This is the 7th med tried in 4 years since haldol stopped effectiveness after first 4 years Son is not depressed Shows signs still on 7.5 mg haldol, negative and voices with anxiety What are your thoughts Also he is type 1 diabetes Running out of ideas Thanks

[@lisanewberry560]

Son with type 1 diabetes, 20 years, drug induced paranoid schizophrenia, severe. 75 MG Haldol injection, every two weeks, he is low level functioning, almost zero self care, addictive behavior, doc suggested seroquel 25 MG Concerned about sugers, And overmedication, he is often restless, still hearing voices, and anxiety

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I would talk with your doctor about options. I will provide some general thoughts for educational purposes. I’m not a big fan of Haldol as a long-term medication and mostly use it in acute agitation or for patients with significant financial constraints. There are other injectable medications that last 4 weeks or more. I often use Invega or Aristada for long-acting injectable medications. The Aristada will have the lower metabolic impact of the two. There is very little evidence for polypharmacy and multiple dopamine blocking medications in schizophrenia. The only example that has some data is the combination of aripiprazole and clozapine for severe treatment resistant cases. Although it’s not uncommon for patients to present with 2-3 dopamine blocking medications on at the same time. Clozapine is the best medication for schizophrenia but requires weekly blood work and has many of the same metabolic risks. With that said it is by far the best medication for schizophrenia (reduces suicidality and substance use as well). These are my thoughts hope it helps provide some additional ideas, appreciate the comment

[@philipparker5291]

I've just received a regimen of 20 pills (12.5 mg) in order to dampen negative thoughts and sleep better. I realize that it isn't a solution, but it may help alleviate my acute symptoms. I did read about the risk of serious adverse events relating to this compound, as well as studies that note that the evidence for positive effects (for the symptoms noted) is slim. I am no expert, so I am hesitant as to what to do. What would be your advise? Thanks!

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I would talk about your concerns with the doctor prescribing the medication. For educational purposes I will say I'm not a big fan of using this medication for the above mentioned symptoms alone. There is evidence for the use in combination with an SSRI or other medication for depression that does not fully respond. I personally do not use it for insomnia. Negative thoughts might be best treated with psychotherapy, although I do not know all the details and can not fully comment for that reason. I do not know of any studies looking at this medication for negative thinking. I appreciate the comment.

[@shawnabrown1591]

My son's GP wants to start him on this medication. He has been have auditory and visual hallucinations that he recognizes are not real. We did scans and the brain's healthy. There is a family history of schizophrenia. What's your thoughts on him starting this medication without seeing a psychiatrist first or getting a proper diagnosis?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I can't provide medical advice and this information is for educational purposes only please take with your doctor before making any medical decisions. I think seeing a psychiatrist and getting a good diagnosis should be the first step. In the case of severe mental illness like schizophrenia being considered as a possible diagnosis I would want an expert in that area making the call. Also he sounds very young and as we know these medications have side effects and it would not be my first choice in the treatment of first break psychosis. The family history of schizophrenia is telling this disorder along with bipolar are highly genetic. I hope this helps and remember 1/3 of people who experience psychosis do not progress and fully recover if there is any cannabis use in the picture I always recommend it be stopped as there is a strong correlation between cannabis use and psychosis especially in youth. Hope this helps

[@fburt100]

My 24 year old daughter is about to begin tapering down from 300 mg Quetiapine XR and switching to Abilify. I'm very nervous the switching process will bring her psychosis symptoms back. She has gained weight in the last 15 months she's been on Quetiapine, which is why she wants to get off it. I really hope this switch goes smoothly for her.

[@AP-nx6xo]

I take 10 mg Abilify at night for bipolar 1. I’ve been on it for 10 years Very affective for anxiety , depression and psychosis . I hope she does well on it It worked for me in the first week .

[@studentaccount4354]

Maybe you could look into the emerging science of genetics in the application of nutrients, pharmaceuticals that might be better refined and targeted with such knowledge. I have heard some say that medicine is the only one that worked and others say it didn’t work. Genetic variation is most likely the reason. Right now it is just qualitative trial and error with meds. I wish it was more individualized and precise.

[@joeking433]

I have heard, and I have experienced, Seroquel as having an antihistamine effect. I breathe so much better when on it and don't have hay fever like I used to have.

[@GHOSTGXZ]

How many mgs do you take?

[@bearclaus2676]

Yup. My allergy for cats completely went away whilst on Seroquel.

[@joeking433]

@@GHOSTGXZ 200mg

[@idarmistorres3156]

Hello Dr! What do you know about the use of this medication in patients with dementia? Thanks!

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I'll do a quick video on this topic look out for it.

[@andrewrobinson773]

For me this this drug has been great it has levelled my moods out and helps my anxiety and sleep I take the xr version (400mg)

[@shifty192]

I get panic attacks, I’m on 100mg Zoloft and 200 lamictal and 5mg diazepam PRN. Do you have any recommendations on a drug that’s less harmful or addictive. I can’t use anymore diazepam because I feel like the rebound anxiety is not worth it. Plus I feel like I could get addicted to diazepam. I’ve taken Seroquel before but I would like to know if there is any alternative because I can’t stand the side effects.

[@fordford9133]

How are you getting on now

[@kailao96]

on my first dose 300MG i immediately had racing heartbeat, then hallucinated for about an hour I was seeing demons, and pictures on the wall, very scary. im now on 25MG and working my way up

[@bearclaus2676]

That would happen to me if i didn't fall asleep immediately. I called it the veil as it was like a lense over my eyes into darkness. Id see shadows walking around, hear things in the house, racing heartbeat accompanied with deep fear/paranoia. Nightmare fuel. I'm still recovering after stopping. it's been around 8 years now. I was prescribed 900mgs every night in one dose for 8 years. It made me appear mentally unwell.

[@bingrasm]

Why nobody assume that this is higly addictive? And that the secondary effects of this are horrendous from destroyed joints to cataracts?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

It's not addictive based on the scientific literature, if you have a randomized controlled trial that proves this, I'd be happy to review it. I've never seen anything about joint damage in the literature either. Here is a case report indicating the exact opposite (see below), again I do not believe this is supported by the research. Cataracts were only seen in beagle dogs during the phase of testing involving animal studies, again not proven in the literature or in human trials. I think we need to be careful what the sources of this information these ideas are coming from, it makes people scared to use a medication based on claims not supported by the evidence base. If you haven’t subscribed already, please do, and spread the word about what we are doing here. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2821395/

[@robertcampbell9992]

I have tinnitus, take 100 mg for sleep, it works.

[@marksurval2410]

Seroquel IR does not help me sleep 😢

[@mrcoco3562]

I been on quetiapine for 2year because I have history of benzo like valium diazepine abuse so doctor only give me quetiapine. Those 2 medicines any different?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

These are very different medications. Diazepam works on the GABA system while Seroquel has several potential mechanism but can be thought of as a dopamine blocking medication. It does work well for bipolar disorder including bipolar depression, and as an adjunctive treatment for depression that does not fully respond to serotonin based medications. Hope this helps, I appreciate the support

[@janets7291]

When I was on quetiapine I had horrible insomnia. I've never felt a sedation side effect on any medication. I wonder if quetiapine has a reverse side effect on some people.

[@cherisemelf4758]

I miss my xanax and my ambien. This really sucks. Im so thankful I am retired, or else Id never get sleep. This is new to me too. Blessings to everybody that has these issues.

[@aethylwulfeiii6502]

Yes it does because it can cause restless leg syndrome and rem sleep behaviorist disorder, especially if you are already low in the dopamine department.

[@sam_i_am_.]

What has your experience been with atypical antipsychotics and Parkinsonism or Oculogyric Crisis?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Much lower risk due to lower affinity for D2. Risperidone tends to have higher risk for EPS than other atypicals. It's not to say that it cannot happen and we should be doing an AIMS test or other objective measures. I appreciate the comment hope this helps

[@beliskakelly2696]

Hello, i know 2 people who are taken Quetiapine. They both have a sort of eatingdisorder when taking the medicine. They cannot control their hunger en eat a lot. Do you know people who does not have this or maybe who have this under control. The eating and the hunger.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

There is a risk for metabolic changes including weight gain and increased lipids. I have noticed that some people have an increased appetite specifically and crave carbohydrates. I think it's possible to control this with diet and exercise, possibly adding a medication like metformin which has good evidence in antipsychotic induced weight gain can help. In short it can occur, but does not occur in every case. Diet and exercise are always helpful and have no side effects. Hope this helps. If you haven't subscribed to the channel please do, and spread the word about the community we are building here.

[@kaylenejoseph9867]

I've only been on 300mg for a few months now and I've already gained 30kgs. Before that I had a nicer figure, now I can't stop eating when I'm sleeping and find the word eat I get straight up and eat no matter the time.

[@desireesutton163]

I finally woke up to pee and I fell like a sack of potatoes. That was when I went from 2 to 3 hundred. It’s a learning curve like maybe I move slower in the morning lol

[@lisarich2459]

I have fallen 3 times. Like a sack of potatoes.

[@danielanikolaeva5140]

@@lisarich2459 and @DesireeSutton, what did your doctors say when you told them about the passing out? Did they explain what caused it? This is certainly a side effect of the drug. It could be low blood pressure or a hearth problem. Where the doctors concerned about the passing out episodes and did they offered an advice how to prevent them?

[@diefilmkitchenjohannessand2173]

I' m off now for 8 days from 50mg seroquel. I was on 100mg for 4 years in before. I tapered to 50mg and then stopped. Its quiet interesting now.... i feel a little better but i have withdrawal... Tinnitus, headache, anxiety, fatigue, dizziness aso ... Do you know how long withdrawal will last? Hopefully not as long as benzodiazepinewithdrawal does .. thx a lot in advance

[@matiche]

How has it been? You stopped at 50mg. Why not try for 25mg before stopping? How have you been since it's now a month or so later? I too am wanting to stop medications and just move onto vitamins (10) plus possibly cbd... reason for desiring only vitamins and cbd is for the same benefits without all the side effects.

[@Bimmy420Leanin]

Hi I've been taking 50mg daily for depression with Cymbalta for 2 years now and I've been thinking of asking my doctor to up my dosage to 100mg, what's your opinion on this?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Best doses for augmenting for depression is 150 mg/day up to a maximum of 300 mg/day. Beyond 300 mg/day there is no benefit when augmenting for depression. Start low and go slow is the best way. Hope this helps.

[@Bimmy420Leanin]

@@ShrinksInSneakers my doctor refuses to put me on 100mg, he has now put me on 50mg Xr modified release and 25mg of the regular Quetiapine, I still feel I’m not taking enough, I think he is worried I will get too tired but Quetiapine doesn’t actually make me tired at all

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

@@Bimmy420Leanin The evidence is there for 150 mg/day to 300 mg/day as an adjunctive treatment for depression. It may be underused otherwise, this is a common problem we run into

[@tiffanywhitener6601]

I am up to 800 mg a day in two doses. Been on it since 2000

[@rubywolf1239]

I take for Borderline and to sleep. But I always wake up at 3am

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I like the immediate release formulation and keeping the doses low 25-50 mg/night for insomnia. Make sure to take a look at the sleep hygiene video some of those behavioral changes can help improve sleep.

[@addioz123]

I am taking Cipralex 10 mg . But no improvement seen. What can be augmented safely? Plz respond back

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I would talk with your doctor about the situation and discuss the lack of improvement, this is not medical advice. In general, a couple of things 10mg is likely too low to see a good response. Citalopram needs to be dosed at 20 mg or more, but most people require 40 mg/day to see real improvement. The other component to an adequate trial is time. The medication needs to be used for at least 4 weeks before determining it’s not working. For example, starting at 10 mg/day, I would continue that for 4-6 weeks before determining it’s not working and increasing. Augmentation is best left for situations where one medication is maximized, and some residual symptoms of depression remain. You can also add CBT right now to the current treatment which I believe would help during the course of the titration. Hope this helps.

[@xuhaipeng1465]

Doc, how do you get off from 800mg daily. I'm being persecuted. The withdrawal Insomnia hits hard & wipes my calendar clean a week in

[@joeking433]

That's what the shrinks don't tell you, that it's far easier getting off of heroin than Seroquel! The withdrawal insomnia is a nightmare that seems to never end! I had to go back on it and save my fight for another day.

[@safy2363]

pT WITH RESISTANCE PSYCHOSIS w dose 300mg They usually give me positive feedback about even it superior to olan in that point

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

It's a good medication, like all these dopamine blocking medications it has it' share of side effects which is the main problem.

[@aethylwulfeiii6502]

It’s really a double edged sword.

[@kaysmith4594]

Does anyone have experience with generic brand of this drug vs the Seroquel brand??? I tried a generic called Accord and the difference was like a decent glass of wine vs gasoline- absolutely awful. But the brand is so expensive!! I would be so grateful to know which generic was closest to seroquel🙏🙏🙏

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

All generic medications must meet a high standard with regards to quality, strength, and purity standards. With that said, there can be some variation between brand and generic, but it should not be detectable in terms of the above standards. People have stated that they feel the brand name is better but, in my experience, I do not see an issue with generic medications. As you said price is a major factor. A tip for quetiapine XR is do not take it after having a meal high in fat, the extend release mechanism can be altered with large meals containing a lot of fat and alcohol. This can cause a dumping effect which may worsen side effects as it will cause a spike in plasma levels. Hope this helps, if you haven’t subscribed to the channel please do so, and spread the word about what we are doing here.

[@justinenigma1908]

I noticed a difference. The brand is better. Cheaper is never better. I read that the formula can be different as long as it’s the same effect. I like the brand name stuff. Get the research and development rather than knock off brands

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

@@justinenigma1908 I think this is more the preference of the patient and many factors go into choosing a brand name Vs a generic medication. When a companies patent on a medication expires generic medications can be manufactured at a fraction of the cost. If you work in community mental health where people lack the basic needs such as food and housing, paying for brand names is completely out of the question. It's important to note that these medications need to meet the same standard for purity, potency, strength, and stability. These medications are the same active ingredient they are not different formulations. There have been issues with a few manufactures over the years regarding contamination (this was medical medications, metformin and losartan most recently) and extended release formulations where the extended release does not function properly (see my video on generic bupropion). This has occurred mostly in overseas manufactures where there is less oversight by the FDA. Hope this helps

[@joeking433]

I never noticed a difference. The generic quetiapine worked fine for me for 15 years.

[@lisanewberry560]

Added 15mg of abilify to the 75 mg of haldol per doctor 1 week today Son is doing better, still won't bath or brush teeth, stays in room all day and talks repeating words. Looks like still positive and negative symptoms Based on educational information your thoughts?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

This is for educational purposes only I cannot provide direct medical advice as always my recommendation is to talk with your doctor. The 75 mg of hadol I assume is IM long acting injectable? One week is not really enough time to tell if the treatment is effective. There should be some response at two weeks if not you need to consider switching or increasing the dose. I want to point out there is very little evidence to support the use of multiple dopamine blocking medications in combination. If you haven’t subscribed already, please do, and spread the word about what we are doing here.

[@arttifacts5781]

DOC CAN I USE NO MORE THAN 25MG FOR SLEEP WITHOUT RAISING SUGAR AND LIPID LEVELS

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

The best defense against weight gain and metabolic side effects of this medication is a good diet and exercise program. If you are maintaining a health weight and monitoring your lipids the risk is much lower. There is some evidence to support the idea that metabolic side effects are related to plasma levels of the medication, this is true for clozapine and olanzapine. A study from 2016 found low dose seroquel defined as an average of 116.8 mg/day to increase metabolic side effects. Using the medication for sleep only is not the best but it's often done clinically, doses over 25 mg are common. Hope this helps, appreciate the comment

[@sam_i_am_.]

Wellbutrin has abuse potential??? 😳 What?!

[@joeking433]

Funny, taking Seroquel for me the dosage determines the amount of sleep I get. If I take 200mg a night I sleep for 8 hours like clockwork. If I take 100mg I sleep for 5 to 6 hours like clockwork.

[@aethylwulfeiii6502]

Suvorexant seems like a more promising drug for sleep than this one, too bad it’s too expensive and slightly under dosed.

[@jamie1081]

12.5mg-25mg MAX works well for my severe, chronic insomnia. No side effects. 60kg male.

[@chemist77]

Did Ur insomnia go away ??

[@suryaprakashpathak9611]

My father is diagnosed with Schizophrenia + Bipolar and . He is on Olanzapine 15 mg , Resperidon 3 mg , Sodium volproate 500 mg , Lorazepam 2 mg , Trihexyphenidyl 5 mg . But he is still facing insomnia only 3 hours sleep and till jow no benifit . What should i do sir ?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Whenever there is a lot of medications of different classes I think the first place to start is with a proper diagnosis. Is this schizophrenia or is this bipolar disorder. The treatments are very different for each illness. I would talk to your fathers doctor and clear this up then ask them to review the medications because this is polypharamcy and may be causing more side effects than benefits. Hope this helps, if you haunt subscribed to the channel please do and spread the word about what we are doing here,

[@sweet2sourr]

I’m taking quetiapine 25 mgs once a day 20mg of Prozac my appetite has increased

[@robertmccall4028]

I'm on exactly the same dose of Prozac and my doc prescribed me 25 mg of quetiapine but have been scared to take it. How is it working other than the appetite?

[@sweet2sourr]

@@robertmccall4028 I can sleep the entire day away now which I don’t like but what I do like is my sex drive has diminished.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

So, it all depends on the reason for using seroquel. If this is just a sleep aid it's an inappropriate use of the medication and side effects are not going to be worth it. The pharmaceutical companies tried to make olanazapine a medication that can be prescribed for mild depression and anxiety and they marketed it primary care doctors. Obviously this did not go well and people had problems and were taking a strong medication for small problems. If you are dx bipolar I or bipolar I depression, schizophrenia then it's reasonable to use seroquel. I would talk with your doctor about your concerns but in my practice I do not use seroqual as a sleep aid. Hope this helps, please subscribe to the channel if you have not already and spread the word about what we are doing here.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Please see my reply to Via S it may be relevant to your situation as well.

[@DCLCRayP]

I don’t feel like it does anything for my bipolar. Just helps me get a good night sleep that’s about it. Might as well just take a sleeping pill. I’m going through a super paranoid “stage” whatever you want to call it. It doesn’t help at all I’m going insane.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

This is not medical advice, you should always talk to your doctor before making any changes. Sleep is incredibly important in bipolar disorder and is usually one of the first signs of an approaching manic episode (decreased need for sleep). The medication may be doing more than meets the eye. The evidence for quetiapine is very good for bipolar depression, although for psychotic symptoms that are severe it's not always the best option. Talk to your doctor ask questions. Hope this helps, If you haven't subscribed to the channel please do and spread the word about the community we are building here.

[@WRTshade]

Goggle lithium. It gave me back sanity 😌

[@joeking433]

That's what I always said. It gave me 8 hours sleep like clockwork. Funny thing, if I take 200mg before bed I sleep 8 hours like clockwork and If I take 100 mg I get 6 hours like clockwork, LOL!

[@erinas.3480]

Hello, I got prescribed Seroquel 50-100mg for insomnia but is that a normal thing it's prescribed for?

[@joeking433]

It works for me for insomnia. The problem is when you try to get off of it you will have terrible insomnia for weeks!

[@danipereldeepam3054]

Sedation ceases after a couple of uses

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Important point many side effects are transient and sedation is much higher at lower doses where there is more antihistamine effects. appreciate the comment

[@rebirthofthecool5619]

5HT1A has more effects on anxiety than depression - Buspirone

[@aronjohnson2553]

Poison pills

[@hornet6969]

Any risk of "Torsade de Pointes" ?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

Low risk but yes it can still happen

[@hornet6969]

@@ShrinksInSneakers Follow up question : ~20 years ago, they used to warn patients about this possible complication. The phrase they used was "sudden death is possible" (paraphrased). What changed?

[@montanalewis]

What are the chances of someone really developing TD from taking antipsychotics?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

This is a video I will be making in the near future.

[@montanalewis]

@@ShrinksInSneakers ok great. I just recently started quetiapine and I also take paxil. Psychiatrist doesn't think I have bipolar but it seems to really have helped me with sleep, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and depression I feel like.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

@@montanalewis Glad to hear you are having a good response to treatment. I believe in using all tools available to keep people well, diet, exercise, medication, psychotherapy it's all part of keeping people well.

[@morningstarscotty.8656]

This med is brutal on the body and mind I been on and off it for years .I cant breathe I sweat I'm a zombie and I cant feel happy or sad .its not worth it .it lowers the feel good hormones in your brain .do u think it's a dangerous drug?

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

It has side effects like all other medications including those taken for hypertension, diabetes etc. All medications in this class block dopamine receptors a so called feel good neurotransmitter. I think the value depends on what disorder you are treating and how that disorder is affecting your life. If you have debilitating bipolar depression for example, and you cannot work or take care of your family as a result it might be worth it to try medication especially if you have never tried it before. On the other hand if you can't sleep and someone offers you Seroquel and you have the reaction you described it's clearly not worth it. This medication should not be prescribed for things like sleep. You also need to carefully consider the use in major depression. Again, here it will depend on how severe the depression and the impact in your life. It's impossible to answer the question about the medication being dangerous, the simple answer is all medications are dangerous if used inapproriately and for improper indications but I've also seen this medication transform some patients lives. Hope this helps, no simple answers here

[@morningstarscotty.8656]

@@ShrinksInSneakers yes that answer did help .I'm gonna stop it cold Turkey tonight .now is it safe to use unisom an over the counter sleep aid .?as for taking care of myself on seroquel I cant function it has made me really lazy fat and dulled down .I do deal with depression and anxiety but I know in my heart that seroquel just makes me worse a med that .ringing in my ears the weight gain the vision problems. On the other hand I do have concerta which is the only med that has helped me feel good and that's probably because the dopamine being uped .that being said I dont use it all the time cause my sleep issues. I just want my life back and I have alot of anger about seroquel. It's made me a different guy in a bad way .I could go on and on honestly but it's hard to explain inless you have tried it .I swear it makes everything in your body work backwards. So if you know people that can say take 300 mg or even 100mg of that med and drive to work or do a heavy duty job I would be surprised cause I get dizzy just walking. I hope to be med free or just get my soul back from all this .thanks

[@BeingBetter]

Seroquel XR was completely different from generic quetiapine. Generic quetiapine was awful. I've been off it for 6 years.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

We talked about this for sure, we can't always trust the FDA inspections and quality of the manufacturing. It's a double edged sword on one hand it keeps costs low for my patients which is a huge issue for many of the people I treat, on the other hand we sometimes have these cases where production and quality of medication is compromised to save money.

[@BeingBetter]

@@ShrinksInSneakers I can see where it would be a balancing act, and cost is a really big factor for many people, fortunately not for me as much. I find your videos interesting, and I think you're a good psychiatrist, not just a drug pusher.

[@edgaredwards1934]

What is the difference between these two.

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

@@edgaredwards1934 They are the same medication Seroquel is the brand name and quetiapine is the generic name.

[@ednaellis4895]

I take 800mg at night all the time I have been on it for years

[@cjsamtab7]

Anyone experience Chest Pain with Quetiapine at 400mg?

[@lv4313]

Is anyone taking it at 25mg??? for sleep thats what they prescribed it for to me

[@cd4886]

Been taking it for sleep 3mos now 25mg, at first lots of side effects and sleep wasn't that good. Now side effects gone and sleep is good, how I wish I had it decade's ago! :)

[@cd4886]

Good luck

[@lv4313]

@@cd4886 oh, thank you

[@badass1g]

I’m over here self guilting for taking 50 mg per night lol

[@studentaccount4354]

A patient should be genetically tested before being prescribed this. If a person with COMT Val,Val would have fast processing forebrain with low dopamine. This prescribing protocol is too inexact and can cause unintended side effects in the patient sometimes leading to fatalities. A certain amount of dopamine is necessary for attention or focus.

[@badass1g]

400-800 MG?!!? Is that for a horse??

[@bearclaus2676]

900mgs a night for 8 years. I joke that Drs had me on horse tranquillisers.

[@cindywright14]

How is the best way to wean off 500mg of Seroquel?

[@cindywright14]

Btw it’s not XR.

[@joeking433]

Good luck! If you stop cold turkey you will not sleep.

[@cindywright14]

@@joeking433 this is for my husband we weaned him off he was off for over 5 months now sadly back on another type of antipsychotic drug

[@joeking433]

@@cindywright14 Why did he go back on drugs?

[@cindywright14]

@@joeking433 sadly his mental health has declined sadly

[@gee1185]

They handed out like m and m's dude what are you talking about

[@ShrinksInSneakers]

I'm not sure what you are talking about here. I certainly can't speak for anyone but myself when it comes to prescribing pratices

[@4eversayaandhagi1]

I have schizophrenia OCD anxiety disorder stress disorder and mild to moderate depression. I literally just started taking Seroquel and it hit me like a ton of bricks. I can barely move my much less walk and I feel the need to stay on my bed in order to feel safe grounded, I can't focus on anything because of brain fog and thinking literally hurts. This medication it's horrible side effects are by means worth it whatsoever, not by any means. This drug and others like it should be completely banned and black listed I 've immediately regret taking this drug because the side effects that I'm getting in literally less than 24 of hours of taking this is just way too much for me to handle right now at this point

[@peggy4597]

Hi. How are you doing?

[@joeking433]

It only happens to you. Everyone else doesn't get your symptoms.

[@4eversayaandhagi1]

@@joeking433First of all you little jacka$$ you should already know that at the time I had only taken this medication once probably since high school which I haven't been active in, in 20 some odd years. Btw just who the bloody f*ck are you to judge what my symptoms were that night a$$hole? You weren't there nor were you with me that night. And the very least of all this is my body were talking and what bloody hellish nightmare I went through, not your body and what you your body and whatever you went through that night. Unless you are some sort of psychiatrist which is the type of wannabe psychiatrist or as I refer them as pill popping quacks that in the medical profession that I respect the least and which is barely a medical profession at all more like a pseudoscience than any actual medical profession. So unless you somehow magically turned into me and went through the hellish nightmare I went through, you are absolutely in no place to f*cking judge me and my actions or reactions to what I was on that nor is anyone else's job to tell me what type of f*cking h*ll I went through that night either, least of all you. Btw just in case your tiny male brain can't quite comprehend this, everyone and I do mean everyone has different reactions feelings and experiences on different psychiatric medications which for me was a long a$$ time ago, I'd like to think me and personal experiences being on a drug I haven't been on in probably 2 decades counts despite whether you disagree with me or not. Lastly and finally you've been blocked and so off f*ck and p! ss off, you little sh!t!

[@kevins.5860]

I was put on 450mg Seroquel per day for anxiety (to replace the 4th 0.5mg dose of a benzo) I only suffer from anxiety, this medication almost cost me my life. I had horrible pain and no energy for a year. My psychiatrist is a horrible doctor, AVOID UM health!

[@kokomanation]

Worst drug ever