From the Guidelines
Seroquel (quetiapine) should be used with caution in patients with Type 1 diabetes due to its potential to cause hyperglycemia and worsen glucose control, as evidenced by its association with weight gain and altered insulin sensitivity 1. When considering the use of Seroquel in patients with Type 1 diabetes, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks, particularly the risk of hyperglycemia and its impact on diabetes management.
- Regular blood glucose monitoring is crucial, especially when initiating or adjusting Seroquel treatment, to promptly identify any adverse effects on glucose control.
- Patients may need to adjust their insulin regimen in consultation with their healthcare provider to mitigate the potential negative effects of Seroquel on blood glucose levels.
- The mechanism by which Seroquel affects blood glucose involves altered insulin sensitivity and potential impacts on pancreatic beta-cell function, highlighting the need for vigilant monitoring and management.
- Symptoms of severe hyperglycemia, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, or unusual fatigue, should be promptly reported to healthcare providers.
- Regular HbA1c testing is recommended to monitor long-term glucose control and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
- Coordination of care between healthcare providers is critical to ensure that both diabetes and psychiatric medications are managed effectively, minimizing risks and optimizing outcomes for patients with Type 1 diabetes taking Seroquel 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Atypical antipsychotic drugs have been associated with metabolic changes that include hyperglycemia/diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and body weight gain. Hyperglycemia, in some cases extreme and associated with ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar coma or death, has been reported in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics, including quetiapine Patients with an established diagnosis of diabetes mellitus who are started on atypical antipsychotics should be monitored regularly for worsening of glucose control. Patients with risk factors for diabetes mellitus (e.g., obesity, family history of diabetes) who are starting treatment with atypical antipsychotics should undergo fasting blood glucose testing at the beginning of treatment and periodically during treatment.
The use of quetiapine may be associated with an increased risk of hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus. For patients with type 1 diabetes, it is essential to monitor their glucose control regularly while taking quetiapine. Additionally, patients should be monitored for symptoms of hyperglycemia, including polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and weakness 2.
From the Research
Seroquel and Type 1 Diabetes
There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding the relationship between Seroquel and type 1 diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes Management
- The management of type 1 diabetes is complex and requires regular exercise, glucose monitoring, and insulin therapy 3, 4, 5.
- Exercise is an important aspect of type 1 diabetes management, but it can also pose risks such as hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Adjunctive therapies such as pramlintide, metformin, and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists can be used to improve glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes 7.