Risks of Seroquel

"Over time, especially if abused, Seroquel can lead to the development of several adverse, and potentially long-lasting side effects. In some instances, these effects are reversible when use of the drug ends, but in other situations, the changes can be permanent.

"One of the most commonly reported side effects is weight gain.4 Over time, excess weight can harm the heart, lungs, stomach, liver, pancreas, and other organs. While many people gain weight while taking Seroquel as prescribed, the result isn’t inevitable. Some are able to remain within a healthy weight by following their doctors’ orders regarding a healthy balance of diet and exercise.

"Along with the added weight, Seroquel carries a risk of other metabolic problems like increased blood sugar.4 There is a link between using Seroquel and diabetes diagnoses. The high blood sugar associated with Seroquel can, in some cases, be extreme and lead to a precipitous drop in blood pH levels (ketoacidosis), coma, or death.

"Signs of persistent hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) may include:4

• Feeling very thirsty.
• Frequent urination.
• Increased hunger.
• Feeling weak or tired.
• Intense nausea or feeling sick to your stomach.
• A fruity smell to your breath.
• Periods of confusion or disorientation.

"High cholesterol can also be harmful, increasing the risk of strokes or heart attacks. Having high cholesterol and blood pressure is often associated with being overweight or having an unhealthy life style. Abusing Seroquel puts one at risk of developing these conditions related to weight gain.

"Other long-term physical effects associated with Seroquel include:4

• "Tardive dyskinesia: This condition affects a person’s nervous system and is characterized by numerous involuntary movements. A person with tardive dyskinesia may lose the ability to control their facial expressions and experience impaired use of their tongue and mouth. Worse, the condition may be irreversible.
• "Blood pressure changes: Seroquel use is known to result in some alterations in the blood pressure of those who use it. Interestingly, children and adolescents using the drug will generally experience higher blood pressure (hypertension) while adults will likely experience lower blood pressure (hypotension). Both conditions are potentially problematic and require further observation to assess any risks to the patient (such as increased risk of falls related to hypotensive episodes; see below).
• "Risk of falls: People using Seroquel are in greater danger of falling and sustaining injuries from the fall. This danger is due to a combination of sleepiness, poor coordination, sensory instability, and low blood pressure.
• "Low white blood cell count: Seroquel may reduce the number of white blood cells (WBC) in the body, especially among those with a history of low WBCs. Having a pathologically low white blood cell count (leukopenia) can be dangerous because these cells normally fight infection; having a low WBC count could expose the user to an increased risk of infection.
• "Cataracts: Using Seroquel increases the chances of developing cataracts, which can blur and minimize vision.
• "Thyroid problems: Taking Seroquel may decrease the thyroid hormone levels. This may worsen as the dose increases.
• "Swallowing issues: Seroquel makes it more difficult to swallow, which may lead to aspiration pneumonia from food being inhaled into the lungs rather than being swallowed into the stomach.
• "Increased body temperature: Using Seroquel disrupts the body’s natural ability to manage and regulate heat and core temperature. Without care, people who exercise rigorously or are exposed to hot climates can become dehydrated more easily.
• "Seizures: Though the risk is slight, it is still worthwhile to mention the increase in seizures seen with Seroquel use among the general population. People with a history of seizures or other conditions that trigger seizures may be at an increased risk.
• "Cardiac issues: Seroquel, especially when combined with other medications, can result in heart rate abnormalities, which may result in cardiac emergencies.

"Certain populations may be at even greater risk of Seroquel-associated adverse events. For instance, when used in elderly people with dementia-related psychosis, Seroquel increases the risk of stroke and death from heart failure or infections like pneumonia.4 Due to these serious hazards, this population should only use Seroquel when no other options exist."

From:  https://www.greenhousetreatment.com/what-is-seroquel/long-term-effects/