Quetiapine (brand name Seroquel) is an atypical antipsychotic medication used primarily to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and in some cases, major depressive disorder (as an add-on). It helps balance certain neurotransmitters (dopamine and serotonin) in the brain.
Key Points:
- Mechanism: Quetiapine blocks various receptor sites in the brain, influencing mood and perception.
- Common Uses:
- Schizophrenia: Reduces delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking.
- Bipolar Disorder: Manages manic episodes and can help stabilize mood; also indicated for bipolar depression.
- Adjunctive in Depression: Sometimes prescribed when other antidepressants alone are insufficient.
- Side Effects: May include sedation, weight gain, dizziness, and metabolic changes (e.g., elevated blood sugar or lipids). Regular monitoring is advised for long-term use.
