Quetiapine is an antipsychotic medicine often sold as Seroquel. Doctors prescribe it for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (mania and depression), and as an add-on for major depression. People also get low doses for sleep or anxiety, but that’s off-label and comes with extra risks. If you’re starting quetiapine, understanding what it does and how to watch for problems helps you stay safer and get the benefits you need.
Dose depends on the condition. For schizophrenia, treatment usually starts low (25–50 mg twice daily) and rises over days to 300–800 mg per day depending on response. For bipolar mania, doctors ramp up faster and often reach 400–800 mg daily. For bipolar depression or as an adjunct in major depression, lower ranges like 150–300 mg daily are common. Some clinicians use 25–100 mg for insomnia or anxiety — but that’s off-label and not always safe long-term. Always follow your prescriber’s plan and don’t change dose on your own.
Sedation and drowsiness are the most common side effects — many people feel sleepy for the first days or weeks. Other common issues include weight gain, increased appetite, dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness from low blood pressure. Quetiapine can affect blood sugar and cholesterol, so check weight, fasting glucose, and lipids if you’re on it long-term. Rare but serious risks include movement disorders (especially at higher doses), abnormal heart rhythms (QT prolongation), and increased risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis. If you notice fast heartbeat, fainting, severe stiffness, high fever, or sudden behavioral changes, seek medical help right away.
Taper slowly when stopping. Stopping quetiapine suddenly can cause rebound insomnia, anxiety, or other withdrawal symptoms. Work with your prescriber to reduce the dose gradually.
Interactions matter. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (like ketoconazole) can raise quetiapine levels and increase side effects. CYP3A4 inducers (like carbamazepine, St. John’s wort) can lower levels and reduce effect. Alcohol worsens sedation and should be avoided. Tell your doctor about all medicines and supplements you take.
Special groups: Pregnant or breastfeeding people should discuss risks vs benefits with a clinician—quetiapine may be used if the expected benefit outweighs risks. Older adults need extra caution and usually lower doses.
Buying and storage: Quetiapine requires a prescription in most countries. If ordering online, use licensed pharmacies, check reviews, confirm a valid prescription is required, and avoid suspiciously cheap sites. Store tablets at room temperature away from moisture.
Practical tip: Keep a simple chart for the first month—dose, sleep, appetite, mood, any side effects. Bring it to follow-up visits so your prescriber can adjust treatment based on real-world effects. That small step often makes treatment safer and more effective.
Jul, 23 2025
Get a real-world, practical guide to buying Quetiapine online. Learn how to spot safe sources, real risks, legal steps, and tips to keep your mental health care safe and effective.
