Quetiapine Fumarate
Pronunciation: (kweh-TYE-uh-peen FYOO-muh-rayt).
- Generic name
- Quetiapine fumarate
- Brand names
- Seroquel XL, Seroquin, Quetidin, Quitipin SR, Seroquel XR, Ketipinor
- Drug class
- Atypical antipsychotic
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: United States · Canada
Australia: · Full directory
What Quetiapine fumarate is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Quetiapine fumarate works
Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic that acts as an antagonist at multiple neurotransmitter receptors in the brain. It has high affinity for serotonin 5-HT2A and dopamine D2 receptors, as well as antagonistic effects at histamine H1 and adrenergic α1 receptors. This receptor profile is thought to contribute to its antipsychotic, mood-stabilizing, and sedative properties. (2)
What Quetiapine fumarate is used for
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia (2)
Bipolar disorder (manic and mixed episodes)
Bipolar disorder (manic and mixed episodes) (2)
Bipolar disorder (depressive episodes)
Bipolar disorder (depressive episodes) (2)
Adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder
Adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder (2)
Before taking Quetiapine fumarate
Do not take / not appropriate for
- Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to quetiapine or its components. (Contraindication) (2)
- Not recommended in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to increased mortality risk. (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take Quetiapine fumarate
- General Instructions: Take quetiapine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dose without medical advice.. Adult Dosing: For schizophrenia and bipolar disorder: Initial doses typically start at 25 mg twice daily, gradually increased as directed. Extended-release tablets are usually taken once daily in the evening. Dosage varies by condition and patient response.. Pediatric Dosing: Quetiapine may be used in adolescents (ages 13–17) for schizophrenia and in children (ages 10–17) for bipolar mania. Dosing is weight-based and should be determined by a specialist.. Administration: Swallow tablets whole with water. Extended-release tablets should not be crushed or chewed. Take with or without food, but be consistent.. When To Stop: Do not stop taking quetiapine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as withdrawal symptoms or relapse may occur.. Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose—do not double up.
Overdose
In case of overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately. Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, rapid heartbeat, fainting, or seizures. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Drowsiness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Dizziness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Dry mouth
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Constipation
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Weight gain
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Increased cholesterol levels
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Orthostatic hypotension
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Tardive dyskinesia
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
FDA BOXED WARNING — Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs, including quetiapine, are at increased risk of death — serious
Symptoms: FDA BOXED WARNING — Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs, including quetiapine, are at increased risk of death; quetiapine is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis. Antidepressants (a use quetiapine is combined with or compared to in bipolar/MDD treatment) increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term studies; anyone taking quetiapine should be monitored closely for worsening symptoms and emerging suicidal thoughts or behavior, especially early in treatment or after a dose change.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
May increase blood sugar and cholesterol levels — serious
Symptoms: May increase blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Can cause weight gain and metabolic changes. Risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a rare but serious reaction.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to quetiapine or its components. Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, history of seizures, hepatic impairment, diabetes, or risk factors for metabolic syndrome. Not recommended in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to increased mortality risk.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Quetiapine may interact with other medications that affect the central nervous system, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, and certain antibiotics or antifungals. CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin) can increase quetiapine levels, while inducers (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine) can decrease its effectiveness. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medicines and supplements you are taking. | (1) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
Requires a primary-source research pass before this section can be completed. (2)
Breastfeeding
Requires a primary-source research pass before this section can be completed. (2)
Children
Frequency: Not applicable.. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use.. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable.. Max Single Dose: Not applicable.. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children. (2)
Renal_impairment
Requires a primary-source research pass before this section can be completed. (2)
Hepatic_impairment
Requires a primary-source research pass before this section can be completed. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
Requires a primary-source research pass before this section can be completed.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Schizophrenia
Dose summary: Initial dose of 25 mg orally, administered twice daily. The dose may be increased in increments of 25-50 mg as tolerated.
Renal context: FDA label (Seroquel): pharmacokinetic studies found no clinically significant differences in quetiapine parameters between patients with renal impairment and healthy control subjects, so a specific dosage adjustment for renal impairment is generally not required; overall dose titration should still be guided by clinical response and tolerability. (2)
Hepatic guidance
FDA label (Seroquel): patients with hepatic impairment should be started on 25 mg/day, with the dose increased daily in increments of 25 mg/day to 50 mg/day to an effective dose, depending on clinical response and tolerability — a lower starting dose and slower titration than for patients with normal hepatic function.
Frequently asked questions
What conditions does quetiapine fumarate treat?
Quetiapine is used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (manic and depressive episodes), and as an adjunct in major depressive disorder.
How long does it take for quetiapine to work?
Some symptoms may improve within a few days, but it can take several weeks to feel the full benefit. Continue taking as prescribed and consult your doctor if you have concerns.
Can quetiapine cause weight gain?
Yes, weight gain is a common side effect. Regular monitoring of weight, diet, and exercise is recommended.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking quetiapine?
No, alcohol can increase drowsiness and other side effects. It is best to avoid alcohol while on this medication.
What should I do if I experience severe side effects?
Seek immediate medical attention if you have symptoms such as chest pain, severe dizziness, seizures, or signs of an allergic reaction.
Can I stop taking quetiapine suddenly?
No, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms or relapse. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your medication.
Are there any foods or medicines I should avoid?
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, and always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid interactions.
What happens if I take too much Quetiapine fumarate?
Taking too much Quetiapine fumarate can lead to symptoms such as severe drowsiness, low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and coma. If you suspect an overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate emergency medical attention. Do not attempt to induce vomiting or self-treat. Contact poison control or go to the nearest emergency room.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Quetiapine fumarate?
It is generally not recommended to consume alcohol while taking Quetiapine fumarate. Alcohol can intensify the sedative effects of this atypical antipsychotic, leading to increased drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. This combination can also heighten the risk of respiratory depression and other central nervous system side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is Quetiapine fumarate safe during pregnancy?
Quetiapine fumarate's safety during pregnancy falls under a category that requires careful consideration. It is essential to consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. They can assess the potential risks and benefits, discuss alternative treatments, and help you make an informed decision regarding your medication during this critical period.
What is the mechanism of action of Quetiapine fumarate?
Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic that acts as an antagonist at multiple neurotransmitter receptors in the brain. It has high affinity for serotonin 5-HT2A and dopamine D2 receptors, as well as antagonistic effects at histamine H1 and adrenergic α1 receptors. This receptor profile is thought to contribute to its antipsychotic, mood-stabilizing, and sedative properties. (2)
What is the generic name of Quetiapine Fumarate?
The generic name is Quetiapine fumarate. It is sold under brand names including Seroquel XL, Seroquin, Quetidin, Quitipin SR, Seroquel XR, Ketipinor.
What class of drug is Quetiapine fumarate?
Quetiapine Fumarate is classed as: Atypical antipsychotic.
References
- Clinician-authored medicine record for Quetiapine fumarate (MedGuideGlobal medicines database) · · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 1
- SEROQUEL (quetiapine fumarate) tablet — FDA prescribing information, DailyMed · · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 2
- QUETIAPINE FUMARATE TABLET, FILM COATED [COUPLER LLC] — US prescribing information (DailyMed SPL)U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- Quetiapine fumarate — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA ANDA201109)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
- Quetiapine fumarate — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 221153)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 5
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Quetiapine fumarate names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
United States
- SEROQUEL400 mg, 300 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 150 mg, 50 mg, 25 mg · h2-pharma, llc
Canada
- QUETIAPINE XR
- SEROQUEL XR
- SEROQUEL
- TEVA-QUETIAPINE XR
- SANDOZ QUETIAPINE XRT