Seroquel (quetiapine)

Brand name: Seroquel®

Active ingredient: Quetiapine / Quetiapine XR

Type: Atypical antipsychotic

Available from: AstraZeneca Canada Inc.

Form: Oral tablets

Generic: Yes — extensive list (Apo, Auro, Accord, JAMP, Mint, PMS, Sandoz, Teva, etc.)

Listed on Ontario formulary: Yes

OHIP+ coverage: Yes

What is Seroquel used for?

Used to treat schizophrenia in adults.
Also used for bipolar disorder (mania & depression) and major depressive disorder (as adjunct).
Sometimes used for withdrawal management.

How should I take Seroquel?

Available in 25 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg tablets.
Usual starting dose: 25 mg twice daily.
Typical daily dose: 50–800 mg, depending on condition.

Common side effects

Dizziness/lightheadedness
Drowsiness
Weight gain
Headache
Stomach upset
Blurred vision
Abnormal dreams
Irritability

Rare but serious side effects

Agranulocytosis
Stroke
Severe allergic reaction
Sudden cardiac death
Torsades de pointes
DKA
NMS

Warnings/Precautions

Not approved for dementia‑related psychosis.

Medication interactions

Possible interactions with:

Diphenhydramine
Lorazepam/zopiclone
Fentanyl
Protease inhibitors
Ketoconazole

Avoid alcohol and illegal drugs.