Side Effects of Quetiapine

Common side effects of quetiapine include dry mouth, drowsiness, high cholesterol, and agitation. However, most people tolerate the drug without problems. If side effects do occur, they are typically minor and easily treated. Some quetiapine side effects, however, should be reported to a healthcare provider right away, such as abnormal muscle movements, signs of an allergic reaction, and an increased heart rate.

 

Side Effects of Quetiapine: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with quetiapine fumarate (Seroquel®). However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with quetiapine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of quetiapine side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Quetiapine

Quetiapine has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and then compared to side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common quetiapine side effects included:
 
Some other common side effects (occurring in 2 to 10 percent of people taking the drug) included:
 
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Vomiting
  • Increased appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Nasal congestion
  • Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
  • Back pain
  • Weight gain (see Seroquel and Weight Gain)
  • Shakiness (tremor)
  • Sore throat
  • Fever
  • Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Irritated or runny nose
  • Vision problems.
 
(Side Effects of Quetiapine Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;