Quetiapine 100mg Tablet
- Class: Atypical (second-generation) antipsychotic.
- Mechanism of Action: Quetiapine works by modulating dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain, helping to alleviate symptoms of psychosis, mood disorders, and sleep disturbances.
- Recommended Usage
Indications
Dosage and Administration
Starting Dose: Typically, the initial dose for schizophrenia or bipolar disorder is 25 mg to 50 mg once daily, which is gradually increased.
Typical Dosage Range:
o Schizophrenia: 150–750 mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses.
o Bipolar Disorder: Typically 200–400 mg daily for acute episodes; 300 mg to 800 mg for maintenance.
o Adjunctive for Depression: Generally 50–300 mg daily at bedtime.
Administration:
o Quetiapine is taken orally, typically once or twice daily, with or without food.
o It is often taken at bedtime due to its sedative effects.
Precautions
Pregnancy: Classified as Category C, meaning the risk to the fetus is unknown. Use only if the benefit justifies the risk.
Breastfeeding: Quetiapine is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised when breastfeeding.
Elderly: Elderly patients, particularly those with dementia-related psychosis, are at increased risk of adverse effects such as sedation, orthostatic hypotension, and movement disorders.
Liver/Kidney Disease: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment. Dose adjustments may be required.
Cardiovascular Risk: Can cause orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure upon standing) and may increase the risk of arrhythmias in susceptible individuals.
Metabolic Effects: Quetiapine can cause weight gain, elevated blood sugar (hyperglycemia), and lipid abnormalities, so metabolic monitoring is important.
Seizure Disorders: Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures as quetiapine may lower the seizure threshold.
