The active ingredient in Seroquel is quetiaprine fumarate, which is classified as an atypical antipsychotic.

As the name suggests, antipsychotic drugs are used to treat symptoms of psychosis that may be present in individuals with schizophrenia, during the manic phases of bipolar disorder, and delusional disorder. They also have some effects as mood stabilizers, and may help to prevent psychotic or manic episodes from occurring.

All antipsychotic drugs function similarly by regulating dopamine release and by blocking certain receptors in the brain. Atypical antipsychotic’s are somewhat different in that they seem to more narrowly target the intended pathways in the brain, causing fewer side effects. They may also work better at improving some of the “negative” symptoms of schizophrenia, in which individuals feel antisocial and depressed.

Interestingly, Seroquel’s sedative effects have caused some doctors to use it as an off-label treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, alcoholism, and certain sleep disorders.

Be advised that, Seroquel is a very potent drug that is designed to treat individuals with fairly severe mental disorders. As with all powerful drugs, it also comes with some unpleasant potential side effects, such as weight gain and drowsiness. However, most individuals taking this medication are likely to find the symptoms of their illness far more disruptive than these side effects.

This does not mean that there is no relief for those suffering from milder mood swings. Consumers may be happy to learn that not only are there some very effective options out there, but they are also all-natural. Although many people tend to associate lithium with more serious illnesses, the prescription drug is actually a synthetic form of the mineral. The natural form is quite gentle, and has been shown to help many people to achieve a more balanced outlook.

• May have fewer side effects than other similar drugs

• Available by prescription only
• Intended to treat serious mental illnesses
• Carries some unpleasant side effects

Mood swings may be caused by any number of factors; PMS and even changes in the weather, can cause some individuals to feel imbalanced and irritable. Fortunately, even a very small amount of the mineral lithium has been shown to improve one’s outlook and help them better cope with stress. Consumers may want to look for a supplement that also contains the substance Orotate, as it has been shown to enhance the absorption of the mineral, allowing it to be more effective at lower levels.

No one should hesitate to get the help they need to feel better. Certain medications have made an enormous difference in the lives of those with serious mental illness. And now, with holistic medicine becoming more and more acceptable, generally healthy individuals have some more attractive options as well.