Quetiapine

Quetiapine, marketed in the US as Seroquel and Seroquel XR, is an atypical antipsychotic drug. It is used in the treatment of schizophrenia and in certain individuals with bipolar disorder.

Indications

Quetiapine is indicated for the treatment of:

• Schizophrenia
• Maintenance treatment of bipolar mania
• Maintenance treatment of bipolar depression

Side effects

As with most antipsychotics, quetiapine can be the cause of several side effects, some common, others rare and life-threatening. Side effects are as follows:

Common

• Drowsiness, sedation
• Nasal congestion
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Weight gain
• Sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing

Rare

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• Tardive dyskinesia
• Diabetes

Other uses

Due to its sedative effect, quetiapine is sometimes used (and misused) for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety disorders.