A recent study conducted by researchers at Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia, has raised concerns about the use of quetiapine, a popular antipsychotic medication often used off-label as a sleep aid. The study, published in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society, found that while quetiapine can improve sleep in individuals with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it may also impair driving ability the following morning.

Study Details and Findings

The study involved 15 adults with OSA who had difficulty maintaining sleep. Participants underwent two overnight sleep studies, taking 50mg of quetiapine before bed on one night and a placebo on another. The researchers monitored various factors, including breathing, brain activity, and oxygen levels.

Results showed that those who took quetiapine experienced over 40 minutes more total sleep time and a reduction in apnea-related events from 27 to 20 per hour. However, the drug also slowed reaction times in a driving simulator test conducted within 30 minutes of waking up. Participants taking quetiapine had more attention lapses and swerved more often than those on the placebo.

Safety Concerns and Recommendations

Eleven out of 15 participants reported feeling sleepier the morning after taking quetiapine, and about one in four did not recognize their level of impairment. This raises concerns about the potential for operating vehicles or machinery without realizing the risk. Other side effects included nausea, restless legs, and a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing.

The researchers recommend avoiding driving or safety-critical tasks for at least 9.5 hours after taking quetiapine. They also call for larger, long-term studies to confirm these findings and guide prescribing decisions for sleep apnea and insomnia treatment.

Expert Opinions

Dr. Ashley Curtis from the University of South Florida emphasized the need to consider sex differences in drug metabolism, as women may metabolize hypnotic medications more slowly, affecting efficacy and side effects. Chelsie Rohrscheib, a sleep expert, advised patients to consult with their doctors about the risks and benefits of quetiapine, especially if they experience grogginess or have sleep apnea.

While quetiapine may offer short-term sleep benefits, behavioral interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia remain crucial for long-term management, according to Curtis.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.