Preliminary a high level overview

Quetiapine, commonly known by the brand Seroquel, is an atypical antipsychotic primarily used for treating schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, including both manic and depressive phases. Clinicians may also use it as an adjunctive option for major depressive disorder in adults where indicated. Its main approvals relate to antipsychotic and mood stabilising effects rather than being a primary antidepressant.

The essential active ingredient is quetiapine. In the UK market it is supplied in immediate-release (IR) tablets and modified or extended-release formulations (often labelled XR or MR). For a quick pointer to tablet sizes, see Strengths that are available.

Available fortes

Immediate-release tablets are typically produced in a range from low to high milligram strengths. Extended-release versions provide once-daily dosing options in several strengths for convenience and differing clinical needs.

What to tell your healthcare provider before starting

Provide a full medical history and an up-to-date list of all medicines, vitamins and herbal remedies. Mention any of the following as they can influence safety or dosing:

Instructions for taking quetiapine

Follow the directions on your prescription label and any instructions from your prescriber. Tablets are swallowed with water. Taking a dose with food may reduce stomach upset. Keep dosing times consistent and do not increase the frequency without medical advice.

If you forget to take a dose

When one dose is missed, take it immediately upon remembering, unless the next dose is due within around four hours. In that case, skip the i forgot to take the prescribed dose and continue with your normal schedule. Do not take two pills at once to make up for a i forgot to take the prescribed dose.

Interactions among users, foods and medicines to be cautious about

Quetiapine can interact with drugs that alter heart rhythm or change quetiapine metabolism (mainly via CYP3A4). Alcoholic beverages and some herbal products can also affect sedation or blood levels. The lists below are not exhaustive; always review all medications with your clinician or pharmacist.

Drugs generally to avoid

Drugs that require caution or dose changes

For a checklist before starting or when adding medicines, refer to the information to share with your clinician section chunk.

Sustained system surveillance of system activity and precautionary steps

Possible side effect risks and when to seek urgent help

Seek prompt medical attention for intense back pain

More common and usually less severe effects

If adverse effects are persistent or interfere with daily life, discuss dose adjustment or backup treatment options together with your prescriber. For further guidance see Automated monitoring and ongoing risk controls.

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Other medicines and comparable treatments

Depending on the clinical situation, other atypical antipsychotics are commonly considered in the UK. The choice will depend on likely benefits, side effect profiles and individual risk factors.

For augmentation of depression, clinicians may consider lithium, atypical antipsychotics at low dose, mirtazapine, or other specialist options. Discuss comparative risks such as metabolic changes, sedation and prolactin effects with your health care provider.

Approximate costs in the UK (GBP)

Private prices vary by manufacturer, strength and pack size. The ranges below are approximate and intended only as a guide.

If you receive your medication on the NHS, prescription charges apply in England (for 2024/25 the standard charge is 9.90 GBP per item for those not exempt). The NHS waives all prescription charges in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Pharmacies may add dispensing fees for private prescriptions.

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