What happens when you drink grapefruit juice with Seroquel XR 50?

Drinking grapefruit juice with Seroquel XR 50 (quetiapine fumarate) can increase the levels of quetiapine in your blood, potentially leading to an increased risk of side effects or decreased effectiveness of the medication. This is because grapefruit juice contains a compound called furanocoumarin, which inhibits an enzyme in the gut that is responsible for breaking down quetiapine. As a result, more quetiapine is absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to higher blood levels of the drug.

Some potential side effects of increased quetiapine levels include:

- Increased sedation or drowsiness

- Dizziness

- Lightheadedness

- Confusion

- Impaired coordination

- Difficulty speaking or thinking

- Increased risk of seizures

- Low blood pressure

- Rapid heart rate

- Difficulty breathing

- Nausea and vomiting

If you are taking Seroquel XR 50, it is recommended that you avoid consuming grapefruit juice or products that contain grapefruit juice. If you accidentally consume grapefruit juice, it is important to monitor for any potential side effects and discuss with your doctor if you have any concerns. Your doctor may recommend adjusting the dose of Seroquel XR 50 or avoiding grapefruit juice altogether.