Quetiapine
Also known as: Seroquel
What it's for
Quetiapine treats schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. At low doses it is sometimes used for sleep or anxiety. It affects brain chemicals including dopamine.
Comes as: Tablets (standard or modified-release)
How to take it
- Dose varies greatly depending on condition.
- For schizophrenia/bipolar: Usually 300mg to 800mg daily.
- For depression: Often 50mg to 300mg daily.
- Take at the same time each day.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness (very common)
- Dizziness when standing up
- Weight gain
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Causes drowsiness - take care when driving
- Can cause weight gain - monitor your diet
- Get up slowly from sitting to avoid dizziness
- Do not stop suddenly after regular use
Get medical help urgently if…
- You have a high temperature, muscle stiffness, and confusion
- You have uncontrolled muscle movements
- You have thoughts of harming yourself
- You have signs of diabetes (thirst, passing lots of urine)
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.