Quetiapine: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic, also called a second-generation antipsychotic, used to treat schizophrenia. It is also used for manic and depressive episodes of bipolar disorder, with its role depending on the type of episode and whether other medicines are prescribed alongside it. Quetiapine requires a prescription in the United Kingdom and is available as a generic medicine.

Quetiapine is indicated for schizophrenia and for manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. For manic episodes, the label describes its use alone or alongside lithium or divalproex. It is also indicated as a treatment on its own for depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder.

For longer-term maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder, the label describes quetiapine alongside lithium or divalproex. Its effectiveness as the only medicine for maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder has not been systematically evaluated in controlled trials. Treatment in children and adolescents requires careful assessment and forms part of a wider programme that may include psychological, educational and social support.

The label lists oral tablets and film-coated tablets in strengths including 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg and 400 mg, depending on the form. The label lists extended-release tablets in 50 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg and 400 mg strengths. The label lists an adult schizophrenia starting dose of 25 mg twice daily and a recommended range of 150 to 750 mg/day.

The label lists an adult bipolar mania starting dose of 50 mg twice daily and a recommended range of 400 to 800 mg/day. The label lists an adult bipolar depression starting dose of 50 mg once daily at bedtime and a recommended dose of 300 mg/day. These dosing schedules describe the standard tablets, rather than an extended-release schedule.

Dose selection and gradual changes depend on the condition, response and tolerability. Older people and people with liver impairment may need lower starting doses and slower increases.

Quetiapine belongs to a group of medicines called atypical antipsychotics. These medicines affect chemical messengers in the brain, especially dopamine and serotonin. Chemical messengers help nerve cells communicate and are involved in thinking, mood and behaviour.

Quetiapine blocks some of the receptors that respond to these messengers, changing how their signals are passed between cells. This action helps explain its use in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Its effects on other receptors can also contribute to sleepiness, dizziness and dry mouth.

Available human studies have not established a quetiapine-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse pregnancy outcomes. Exposure during the third trimester can cause movement problems or withdrawal symptoms in newborn babies, including sleepiness, breathing difficulties and feeding problems. Untreated schizophrenia and bipolar disorder also carry risks during pregnancy.

Quetiapine passes into breast milk. No consistent adverse effects have been reported in breastfed infants, and its effect on milk production is unknown. Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with the prescriber so treatment needs and potential risks can be considered together.

A missed dose can interrupt the regular treatment schedule. General pharmacy advice is to resume the prescribed schedule rather than double a dose to make up for one missed. If several doses have been missed, or the timing is unclear, ask a pharmacist or prescriber before restarting because quetiapine dosing may involve gradual increases.

No specific storage conditions are listed for this product. Keep tablets in their original packaging, away from moisture and direct sunlight, and out of the sight and reach of children. Follow the storage directions on the pack to maintain quality.