Seroquel (Quetiapine)

Seroquel (quetiapine), manufactured by Astra Zeneca, is an atypical antipsychotic medication in the chemical class called dibenzothiazepine derivatives. Seroquel was approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and affects a broad range of neurotransmitter receptors, including serotonin receptors. Seroquel was approved by the FDA for marketing in 1997. Although its approval was limited to the treatment of schizophrenia, in 1999 the FDA warned Astra Zeneca about its claim in materials distributed since its original approval that the drug is useful in the treatment of bipolar and schizaffective disorders.

Like other atypical antipsychotic drugs in its class (dibenzothioazepines), Seroquel has been linked to a higher incidence of diabetes. Data from a recent medical conference in Philadelphia showed patients on Seroquel had 3.34 times as many cases of diabetes as those on older drugs. The study was conducted on U.S. military veterans and demonstrated that Seroquel and other members of a new class of anti-psychotic drugs were linked to a higher risk of diabetes, but the risk of diabetes was greatest with Seroquel.

Seroquel may cause tardive dyskinesia--a condition characterized by uncontrollable muscle spasms and twitches in the face and body. This problem can be permanent, and appears to be most common among older adults, especially women.

If you or someone you know has suffered from diabetes and tardive dyskinesia after taking Seroquel, please complete our confidential questionnaire for a free case evaluation, or call us toll-free at 1-888-766-2690.