Quetiapine

Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication, belonging to the class of dibenzodiazepines. It is primarily used for the treatment of psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive episodes. Quetiapine is also prescribed for short-term management of acute agitation in patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
In patients with schizophrenia, quetiapine works by blocking dopamine receptors, thus helping to alleviate positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. For bipolar disorder, quetiapine has a stabilizing effect on mood by modulating neurotransmitter systems such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. It is also effective in treating depressive episodes as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Quetiapine comes in various formulations, including tablets, extended-release tablets, and oral solution. The medication should be taken as directed by a healthcare professional, and dosage adjustments should be made based on individual patient needs and responses.
It is important to monitor patients for potential side effects, such as drowsiness, weight gain, dizziness, and dry mouth. Quetiapine may interact with other medications, so inform healthcare providers of all current medications and medical conditions before initiating treatment.