So, after a very bad day yesterday, I had to call EMTs and have Mom taken to the ER. She was very upset, did not recognize me, and got physically agressive.
The ER doc gave her two 50mg Seroquel (and a script for one pill twice daily) and I brought her home. She was very stoned last night, slurring and not making any sense at all. She was very lethargic all day, but as evening closed in, she started getting more agitated.
I gave Mom one Seroquel this evening and she went to bed, only to be up in one hour, again slurring, very confused and not making sense.
Reading the pharmacy's information insert about Seroquel, I am stunned to read it is "not for older adults with dementia". However, I see other's mention it here in forums.
I am concerned to give her anymore for fear of making her worse! I will be calling her doc (who she has not seen in 4 years) to follow up. Now THAT'S going to be a nightmare, getting her to talk to the doc!
Appreciate the knowledge you all so freely share!
On the other hand, many of the caregivers in my support group reported that it did not help their loved ones or that it made matters worse. So it is not the right drug for everyone.
Starting at 100 mg a day seems high to me. For dementia, the people I know who tried it started at 12.5 or 25 mg once or twice a day. My husband eventually worked up to 100 mg once a day and remained at that dose. Maybe instead of dropping it altogether it would be good to adjust dosage. But it is possible it will not be the drug for her no matter what.
If she has not seen her doctor in four years this might be a good time to switch to a geriatrician for primary care.
Good luck getting her to the Dr.. HUGS..
SO appreciate all the answers!
I think this is not the drug for her. I know all meds have potential side-effects, but I do think she should be better on a med, not worse.
Perhaps you could tell me how you get your mom to take the meds. My mother just raised hell when I gave her the pill tonight, stating it was the only one she would take. Can't sneak it in food - she shares too much with the dogs!
Thanks for your response!
i was given seroquel for hepc treament related phsycosis once and it was a horrible drug for me. id have preferred childrens chewable morphine..
Has she been tested for dementia?
My Mom has been having panic attacks for over a year and we finally found a med that works! But for how long is the question?