Seroquel (Quetiapine) Withdrawal: Symptoms, Timeline, & Treatment

What is Seroquel withdrawal?

Seroquel (quetiapine) is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. It can also be used off-label for anxiety, insomnia, and mood lability. Abruptly discontinuing Seroquel can result in withdrawal symptoms, including dizziness, increased heart rate, insomnia, nausea, and vomiting.

Symptoms of Seroquel withdrawal

The most common symptoms of Seroquel withdrawal include:

• Dizziness
• Excessive sweating
• Increased heart rate
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle rigidity
• Irritability
• Agitation
• Restlessness
• Abdominal pain

Timeline of Seroquel withdrawal symptoms

Seroquel withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 1-4 days after the last dose of the medication. Symptoms can last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks. In some cases, symptoms may persist for up to 6 weeks or longer.

Treatment for Seroquel withdrawal symptoms

There is no specific treatment for Seroquel withdrawal symptoms. Treatment typically involves supportive care, such as:

• Rest
• Fluids
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Anti-nausea medications

In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary if symptoms are severe.

Warnings about Seroquel withdrawal

• Never stop taking Seroquel without talking to your doctor.
• Abruptly discontinuing Seroquel can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms.
• Withdrawal symptoms from Seroquel can be dangerous or even lethal.
• Withdrawal from Seroquel should always be overseen by a medical professional.

Long-term treatment for Seroquel withdrawal

If you are struggling with Seroquel withdrawal symptoms, there are resources available to help you. Talk to your doctor about your options. There are many rehabilitation and supervised detoxification facilities that accept patients who are withdrawing from prescribed medication.

Withdrawal resources

If you think you may be having any symptoms of withdrawal, express your concerns to a medical professional. If you're struggling with negative feelings such as guilt or shame regarding your withdrawal symptoms, a mental health professional can help your process those feelings and help you cope with them in a healthy way.