Quetiapine

Quetiapine is an antipsychotic used for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and sometimes alongside an antidepressant for depression.

Type of medicine

Atypical antipsychotic

Also known as

Seroquel, Seroquel XL, Biquelle

Comes as

tablets, prolonged-release tablets, liquid

How you get it

Started by a specialist, then sometimes prescribed by a GP

What it is used for

Schizophrenia
Mania and depression in bipolar disorder, and preventing them
Depression, alongside an antidepressant (prolonged-release tablets)

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Generalised anxiety disorder
Agitation or psychosis in Parkinson's disease
Sleep problems (not recommended because of side effects)

How it works

Quetiapine blocks dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain, which can reduce psychosis and stabilise mood. It also blocks histamine, which makes it sedating.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Quetiapine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

feeling sleepy
dizziness
dry mouth
weight gain
constipation
raised cholesterol and blood sugar

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

a high temperature with stiff muscles and confusion (neuroleptic malignant syndrome). Call 999
uncontrolled movements of the face, tongue or body
thoughts of harming yourself
fainting or a fast heartbeat

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Your weight, blood sugar and cholesterol will be checked regularly.
Avoid grapefruit juice.
Do not drive if you feel sleepy.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.