Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (manic/depressive episodes) and as adjunctive treatment in major depression. It works by altering the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain (dopamine and serotonin). 

Atypical antipsychotic (neuroleptic) / mood-stabilising agent. 

Active: quetiapine fumarate (equivalent to quetiapine) at 150 mg strength per tablet (immediate-release or equivalent). Excipients vary by manufacturer. 

Directions/Usage

Use exactly as your doctor prescribes — dose may start low and increase based on response. 

– For tablets: movement between morning and evening dosing often applies; some patients take once daily at bedtime depending on formulation. 

– Do not stop suddenly — stopping abruptly may cause withdrawal or relapse of condition. 

• Drowsiness, sedation

• Dizziness, light-headedness (especially on standing)

• Dry mouth

• Increased appetite, weight gain

• Constipation

• Blurred vision

• Orthostatic hypotension

More serious but less common: diabetes/new-onset high blood sugar, movement disorders (e.g., tardive dyskinesia), neuroleptic malignant syndrome. 

Packaged as blister strips or bottle of film-coated tablets; exact packaging depends on manufacturer and country. For example: “Quetiapine 150 mg film-coated tablets”. 

Safety Advice

Contraindicated in individuals hypersensitive to quetiapine or its excipients.

– Use caution in patients with: cardiovascular disease (e.g., QT prolongation), liver or kidney impairment, diabetes or risk of diabetes, seizures, low white blood cell count. 

– Not approved for behavioural problems in older adults with dementia — increased risk of stroke and mortality in this group. 

– Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Should be used only if clearly needed and with specialist advice.

– Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how you respond (sedation, dizziness possible).

– Monitor for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (rigidity, fever, confusion) or tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements).

– Many drug interactions: e.g., drugs that affect CYP3A4 enzyme, other sedatives, medications that prolong QT interval. 

Varies by country and specific brand — e.g., the brand Seroquel (by AstraZeneca) is a well-known brand for quetiapine. 

Depends on the manufacturer and batch. For example, Seroquel is marketed globally by AstraZeneca; origin/manufacture may vary by region.