Quetiapine (Seroquel)
Quetiapine (Seroquel) explained
Quetiapine (Seroquel) is an atypical antipsychotic for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and as adjunct for major depressive disorder (XR). Sedation and metabolic effects are common.
FDA ApprovedQuetiapine (Seroquel) helps treat
• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar mania
• Bipolar depression
• Maintenance (bipolar)
• Adjunctive therapy in MDD (XR)
additional medications
• Aripiprazole
• Lurasidone
• Olanzapine/fluoxetine (for bipolar depression)
• Psychotherapy and mood stabilizers
medication risks
• Metabolic syndrome (weight, lipids, glucose)
• Sedation and orthostasis
• QT prolongation
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (rare)
• Tardive dyskinesia (long‑term)
side effects
• Drowsiness
• Weight gain
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Constipation
FAQs
Q: What is quetiapine used for?A: Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder; XR is used adjunctively in MDD.
Q: Does it cause weight gain?
A: Yes—monitor weight, lipids, and glucose.
Q: Sedation?
A: Common; often more sedating than some peers.
Q: Movement disorders?
A: Lower EPS risk than typicals, but can occur.
Q: QT risk?
A: Possible—caution with other QT‑prolonging drugs.