Quetiapine for Bipolar Disorder User Reviews (Page 3)

• Getting...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• July 23, 2019

Seroquel (quetiapine) "I was hospitalized 17 years ago with a major manic mixed episode. It was worst thing on earth. Was given 200 milligrams of serequel and it calmed down the demons. Tapered the dose down in months time come and stayed successfully at 50 milligrams for following 17 years. Long term side effects began with bloods changed, elevated blood sugar and triglycerides. Weaned and got off it, took several weeks. Feeling better with more clarity and regular movements now. Those two weeks of getting out of my system caused side effects of weird dreams, body aches and mood swings. Hard time sleeping. Increases over the counter supplements and made sure my life was low key until things settled. I’m grateful for the med. If not for the side effects which would have led to diabetes I would have remained in it. But I believe in the beginning it saved my life."

• Tkano
• April 9, 2019

Seroquel (quetiapine) "Due to weight gain I tried other medications to help control manic thoughts at night and help me sleep. Nothing works. What I decided to do was actually up my dose with my doctor so that the effects of sleepiness would kick in before the hunger. I take 200mg Seroquel at night with a combination of 300 mg Wellbutrin XR for depression and 150 mg Lamictal for mood stabilizing during the day. I take 15 mg of BuSpar twice a day for anxiety. I got off all of these when I was pregnant and was complete basket case. This drug cocktail worked for 10 years and I spiralled when I went off of it. Since I’ve been back on my meds four months I’m completely normal again; functioning at a high-level. I run a very successful business and I know that I could not do it without these medications. I have virtually no side effects except for if I stay awake for too long after taking the Seroquel I will get on uncontrollable hunger. Seroquel does cause dry mouth in the middle of the night but it’s worth it"

• Anony...
• May 8, 2021

Seroquel (quetiapine) "I was prescribed Seroquel 100mg as a mood stabilizer (for Dysthymia and Generalized Anxiety Disorder) by psychiatrist to be taken alongside 200mg Wellbutrin daily. It knocked me out the first time I took it and I noticed my blood pressure dropped sharply, but I felt good in the morning. After 3 weeks I started to feel like a zombie and developed severe constipation, then; suddenly, a feeling of internal tremor, so I contacted my Dr to stop. I slept 2 hours a night for about a week; had horrid nightmares, sleep paralysis, and severe mood swings and panic attacks. I was put on Xanax for the panic, but also developed muscle twitching all over my body that continued at night, waking me up. It's now been 40 days since I stopped taking the Seroquel. My mood is okay, but I still have (slightly less) muscle twitches in the day and night. I wonder if I'll ever be normal again. I'm so angry this was prescribed without explanation, for a minor condition when its effect on me has been far more deleterious to my life than my original condition."

• shura
• June 1, 2020

Seroquel (quetiapine) "This drug Seroquel made me feel like a zombie. Sure it would make me feel "normal" but it would completely knock me out. I was with some friends and I was going to give them a ride home from my house and accidentally took my medication too early and I literally passed out and they had to get a ride from a friend. I was only at a 50 mg dose. This medication was just not for me. I take Latuda now, which made me really drowsy when I first started taking it but I have since gotten over it."

• Rhianon
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• September 22, 2019

Seroquel (quetiapine) "THIS WAS MY EXPERIENCE... I have been fighting mental disorders since age 14. During the 40+ years. I have been prescribed tricyclics, typical antipsychotics, SSRIs SNRIs Benzos (diazapam when 16 years old). I chemically blew out my brain, specifically the serotonergic and dopaminergic pathways, by doing LSD from 1978 through 1981. It was the '70's. So now at the edge of 60, I have horrible reactions to psychotrophics. Seroquel paralyzed my arms and legs after my nightly 1 to 3 hours of sleep, such that I had to lay there until I could use my left arm to pick up my right arm, then with both free, I used them to get my legs going. I took it for about 4 years, with the above side effects plus the helicopters whizzing through my brain and body. To me, it is a nasty drug. I finally got sick of it. tossed the remaining pills, went loopy. My partner thought I was going to die. I lived."

• Jendo...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 9, 2020

Seroquel (quetiapine) "Seroquel is terrible. I felt completely disassociated. I knew words were coming out of my mouth but sometimes had no clue what I was saying. I was only on it for a few month but I called my Dr. in a panic when I’d realized the weight I’d gained. I lost 100 lbs in my 20’s and been able to keep it off give or take 10lbs, I’m now 40 years old and I instantly put on belly/waist weight, a place where I have NEVER have gained before. I know my body well & this was pretty extreme. I went up a pant size in 2 months. I told my dr. And he said it makes you crave carbs but I KNOW it’s more than that. What type of meds make you gain weight in a specific area? After loosing the 10-15 lbs, I am stuck with saggy skin after 3 months! It’s not worth it. It created a whole new set of permanent problems like saggy skin & my confidence with undressing around my husband. Horrible!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 3, 2013

Seroquel XR (quetiapine) "Works like a charm. It was prescribed for me for Bipolar I disorder (as part of my cocktail of meds), especially for symptoms involving lack of sleep. I have been struggling with sleep problems for so many years, and this works great for me at 50 mg. It even helps with depression and anxiety temporarily. I feel a lot calmer, which is definitely needed for me, especially at night. It helps with racing thoughts and voices as well. No more "noise" in my head at night for most part."

• Koala...
• October 10, 2014

Seroquel (quetiapine) "When I first took Seroquel, I had the side effects of a type of motion sickness, as my head would whirl about, and I never knew if I was whirling or the surroundings were. I didn't want to stay on it, but was advised to give it longer. And to change from XR to regular. I did, and after about 6 weeks (from memory) I adjusted to it. Yes, I was so tired, went to cut a 300mg into halves, then to 200mg's, now to 300 mg again. Seroquel works for me, I've been on it for approx 18mnths or so. I sleep, my mind doesn't race or think or roam. I get a deep sleep. I was advised to get up early and it will wear off- yes, that happens. But it's not easy."

• Tlg...
• March 28, 2015

Seroquel (quetiapine) "I have been on Seroquel for 2 years. It really is a miracle. It has helped with my mood swings and problems sleeping. The only issue has been the weight gain. I've probably put on 35 lbs and I've never had problem with weight gain. The benefits of this medication make up for the weight gain."

• Poohb...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• November 13, 2018

Seroquel (quetiapine) "I’ve been on Seroquel for years-150mg at night to sleep. I combine it with 50 mg Trazodone and 0.5mg of Klonopin. I sleep through the night and I can deal with my anxiety and Bipolar 1. Diagnosed 22 years ago and tried just about every other drug suggested. This works-I get 8-9 hours of sleep a night. I’m a bit groggy in the morning but It’s worth it to be stable and functional"

• Anonymous
• July 5, 2012

Seroquel (quetiapine) "This medicine is great for sleep and helping anxiety, but if you have responsibilities, work, school, kids, ANYTHING, then be prepared. I am only on 100mg and although I feel calmer and not so irritable, I just feel sort of dozed and no motivation to do anything, not even simple things like taking a shower or making something to eat. I woke up this morning needing to go to the bathroom and it seemed like an overwhelming task and I was stumbling around like when you are drunk. If you don't have to work or answer to anyone then it's fine because you can just space out and not have such negative emotions and feel better."

• Anonymous
• June 29, 2010

Seroquel XR (quetiapine) "I feel like this medication has saved my life. At the beginning of 2010, I had a mental breakdown. I was suffering from crying spells for no apparent reason and just did not want to live. I felt like I was watching someone go through the motions of my life and my true self was suffering and hurting. I made an emercency appointment with my psychiatrist. He started me at 50mg on day one, 100mg on day two, 150mg day three, 200mg day four and 300mg as maintenance. I used to have passive suicidal thoughts all the time and can now say that I don't. I've suffered from this condition for 12 years (Depersonalization Disorder). I've not known what it is like to not have depression until now. I feel like I owe my life to Seroquel XR."

• Tesse...
• June 10, 2015

Seroquel (quetiapine) "After trying the most of medication for my depression/ mixed state, seroquel finally worked out. Made racing thougts go away and my mood is finally back to normal again. Feel happy and relaxed. I also take 150 mg venlafaxine. Best medicine i ever tryed is seroquel. No weigh gain for me. This medicine is a lifesaver for me."

• Brian...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• July 24, 2014

Seroquel XR (quetiapine) "I've only been on Seroquel for 2/3 weeks but I have had a largely positive experience. I have had a diagnosis of depression for about ten years and was using Cipralex (Lexapro). I came off Cipralex twice, and both times I became very depressed. Even on Cipralex my mood was constantly changing so I went to see a psychiatrist who thinks I may have Cyclothymia or bipolar 2 so started me on 50mg of Seroquel. Initially I was very groggy but have gotten over that. I've also gained a stone in weight. But my mood has really stabilised for the first time. I feel happy, confident and passionate. I no longer have a million thoughts in my head so can focus better. Hopefully this continues."

• Happy...
• August 7, 2013

Seroquel (quetiapine) "Seroquel 100mg saved my life. For 9 months I did not sleep because of an anxiety disorder. I tried to kill myself three times. Finally i was given Seroquel and 130mg trazadone. I have been sleeping well and not depressed for ten years. It has saved my life I am so grateful. Did put on 50lbs better that than being dead. Very grateful."

• Koala...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• November 8, 2014

Seroquel (quetiapine) "When I first went on this medication 300mg I did not like it at all. I had side effects of a type of floating- my head wasn't attached to my body- I'd be disorientated, only for a short time, but frequently at first. I don't really remember any other side effect. I wanted to stop taking this. I was 300 SR then went to normal Seroquel. Being on standard Seroquel helped. I asked to change off Seroquel and was told its a good medicine and just give it time- 6 weeks. Wow, I didn't like that idea. I did give it time, I was tried of a day, so went back to 150mg- over time I've been on 200mg also and now 300mg. I am so grateful to myself for hanging in there. I choose to be on Seroquel, I sleep a deep sleep, for me, I am happy. Very happy."

• Patient
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• August 12, 2013

Seroquel (quetiapine) "I suffer from mainly depression and anxiety. I have had a few bouts of hypomania. This was recommended to me to help anxiety and mood swings. Within an hour of taking this medicine I was always somewhat buzzed and not in a good way. Like you have to lie down and sleep or you will become extremely irritable. The sleep was great on it, however you wake up in a fog for hours. Usually until dinner time for me. It really flattens you out so you don't feel much but emotionless and tired. I took anywhere from 50 to 200 mg and the result was the same. I am off now and trying safer meds. Seroquel wasn't for me, glad it helps millions though!"

• Baibai
• November 9, 2018

Seroquel (quetiapine) "I struggled with bipolar 1 disorder and before I found this medication I was all over the place. When I was manic I was like supergirl and when I was down I felt so pathetic and worthless. When I first got on this drug my ups and downs got better but they were still problematic. But, it’s almost been a whole year since I got on it and I have never felt more stable so I’d say it takes time but it’s worth it. I’m not at creative as I was when I didn't have any treatment, but I am still passionate (and sane lol) and that honestly makes up for it. And I definitely do not get that low. I have my fair share of struggles but I’ve learned that it’s ok, it’s life, but nothing like the highs and lows I experienced before. It’s a miracle pill for me."

• bipol...
• July 15, 2016

Seroquel (quetiapine) "This medication was a life saver after being admitted in the hospital for being manic an very agaitated was titrated from 50mg to 250mg a day in it has cured my agitation 75% of my mood 50% of my deppression since most antidepressants make me manic I would recommend to anyone who has tried multiple medicines I can finally sleep feel relaxed in not stay angry for hours."

• kel...
• September 16, 2013

Seroquel (quetiapine) "It worked well for sleep but I could not remember eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. I woke up with it all over my pillow and cheeks weird.. I felt hung over in the morning. Also was taking Geodon and Effexor. I don't take anything now. It's been 3 years. I'm doing good."

• Leahe...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• September 4, 2019

Seroquel (quetiapine) "I have been on this medication for years. The only things that isn’t fun is the drowsiness and the increased appetite but this medications side effects don’t effect me nearly as much as other medications I’ve taken"

• Alex...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• March 16, 2020

"I have been taking Seroquel since 2014 for unwanted, intrusive, negative thoughts during episodes of bipolar 2 depression. At 500-600 mg per day, the drug works great. The only time I have problems is when I attempt to lower the doze below 500 mg per day. I sleep very well with Seroquel and it has given me my life back. Negative thoughts still happen but they are given proper perspective with no obsession. I have not gained weight or noticed any other side effects. Seroquel has been a game changer for me."

• Starj...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• July 8, 2019

Seroquel (quetiapine) "I have been taking seroquel for over 10 years. By far the best stabilizer for me. Previously I had tried several meds. At first my dosage was low, but kept climbing. Dosage went to 800 mgs. I changed my psych doc and she slowly walked me down to 400 mgs. We even went down to 200 mgs. But that was too low. I'm now at a happy medium. I do take lithium as well and zoloft. I have been diagnosed bipolar for 25 yrs, so you can imagine the med changes in the past."

• DMano
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• February 22, 2017

Seroquel (quetiapine) "I was recently diagnosed with type 2 BP in July of 2016. I was on Lamictal at first and it was a nightmare, It kept me from being sad but I would still get very angry. Seroquel was next and I was too scared to take it at first, but once I started having a LOT of heated arguments and stress I finally decided to take it. So far so good, I only take 25mg because is chills me out and eases my anxiety. I don't get sad and I don't get overly mad or excited. First few days I am tired on the meds but after a few days I am able to manage my life. I wish I would have went to a Dr years ago to get treated because since I was 13 my moods have been up and down. Now I'm as chill as a cucumber."

• Anonymous
• August 29, 2009

Seroquel XR (quetiapine) "I have heard all kinds of bad things about Seroquel but to me this medicine has saved my life. I was diagnosed with cyclothymia with racing thoughts and extreme hypo-manic phases followed by intense depression. Not to mention I would get so paranoid sometimes that I couldn't leave the house. I had tried everything including lithium but then I went to a new doctor. She said I could try Seroquel XR but I probably wouldn't like feeling sedated. I said sedated? fine! The funny thing is that I have had more energy but it is calm positive energy. I made a huge turn around and life is back on track. I thought I had ADHD as well but now I have great concentration, no anxiety, and can sit still for hours. I highly recommend if your symptoms sound like mine."