^&*Before I started Quetiapine approximately nine weeks ago, I did a fair bit of research, but nothing could have prepared me for its effects. The starting dose was 50mg, increasing to 375mg within 4days. For the first week I felt completely zoned out. My mind seemed to slow down considerably, something I needed more than I could ever convey here. Almost immediately, my depression felt better than it has done for many years and the motivational drive came out of the blue. Suddenly I was cleaning, washing, doing the laundry and listening to music again. Generally I began taking more of an interest in things around me. However, I am very aware that my motivation - this new found enthusiasm for life - did not come from natural sources, it came on the back of a powerful mind altering drug. I still do feel under the influence of a drug and I am not sure if this is how it should be affecting me. Have any of you members had experiences you could share?
I've been on it now for 9 weeks. I no longer feel zoned out but I do still feel under the influence of a drug. I couldn't say it resembles a stimulating drug but, for me, it most definitely has a strong motivational element. It also eases my paranoia and maybe even lowered my inhibitions a little bit too much, at times. It has felt so good not to be dragging depression around. Sometimes I've felt almost alien to myself.
Unfortunately the price I have to pay is insomnia. I have very poor sleep, wakening every 2hrs, looking at the clock. I have spent most of the last 10years curled up in bed, why then should I worry about insomnia? Well, because I am almost completely exhausted, having averaged 5hrs sleep each night for the last 4 weeks.
The worst side-effect for me is restless legs syndrome - that very aggravating tightness in my legs - it is driving me crazy!! Seriously, it is so bad i have considered coming off the drug completely.
So my fellow friends, I wonder if anyone has had similar experiences. Will love to hear from you
