Seroquel for Opiate Withdrawal

Seroquel is the brand name of a generic drug called quetiapine fumarate. Seroquel is a psychotropic prescription drug used for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is considered an atypical antidepressant, and it is also used for major depressive disorder in some cases. One off-label use for Seroquel is to help with insomnia and sleep issues, although the FDA doesn’t approve this.

Seroquel has common side effects that include drowsiness, constipation, and weight gain. Other possible side effects of Seroquel can include low blood pressure, prolonged erection, high blood sugar and seizures. In older users with dementia, Seroquel can be dangerous or deadly. Seroquel is believed to work by blocking certain receptors, including dopamine and serotonin. Overall, Seroquel is thought to have fewer adverse side effects as compared to most other antipsychotics.

Seroquel does have the potential to lead to physical dependence. When patients are prescribed this medication, they’re advised to gradually taper down their dosage to avoid acute withdrawal syndrome. Seroquel does affect the central nervous system, including the serotonin and dopamine receptor sites, which is why it’s believed to cause withdrawal if someone tries to stop using it suddenly. Some antipsychotic withdrawal symptoms can include nausea, tachycardia, headache, anxiety, and uncontrollable crying.  People tend to wonder if an approved or recommended use of Seroquel is for opiate withdrawal.