How do you take Quetiapine (Quetiapine Fumarate)?

Your doctor will start you on a low dose and gradually increase it. For most conditions, you will take it 1-2 times daily, usually in the evening since it can make you very sleepy. You can take it with or without food, but swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not stop taking it suddenly without your doctor's advice — your dose needs to be reduced slowly.

What are the side effects of Quetiapine (Quetiapine Fumarate)?

Feeling very sleepy or drowsy, dizziness especially when standing up quickly, dry mouth, weight gain, constipation

Who should not take Quetiapine (Quetiapine Fumarate)?

People who are allergic to quetiapine or any ingredient in the tablet, elderly people with dementia (it increases the risk of stroke and death in this group), people with a history of low white blood cell count, and people with severe liver problems should not take this drug without close medical supervision.

Prescription

Atypical antipsychotic (medicine for mental health conditions)

Quetiapine

Last reviewed June 2026

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Quetiapine is a medicine that works by balancing certain natural chemicals in the brain (like dopamine and serotonin) to help improve thinking, mood, and behaviour.

What is it used for?

Schizophrenia (a mental illness that causes confused thinking and hearing voices)bipolar disorder (serious mood swings between high and low)depression that has not responded to other treatments

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Schizophrenia & Psychosis Depression & Mental Health

How it works

Blocks dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways, reducing psychotic symptoms and mood dysregulation. Additionally antagonizes alpha-1 adrenergic and histamine H1 receptors, contributing to anxiolytic effects and sedation.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

This is a serious prescription medicine — never buy it from roadside sellers or take it because someone else recommended it; only use it as prescribed by a qualified doctor. Do not share this medicine with anyone else, even if they seem to have similar symptoms. Because it causes drowsiness, avoid driving, operating machines, or doing anything that requires alertness, especially when you first start taking it.

Common Side Effects

Feeling very sleepy or drowsy
dizziness especially when standing up quickly
dry mouth
weight gain
constipation

Serious Side Effects

Uncontrollable movements of the face
tongue or body — see a doctor immediately. High fever with stiff muscles and confusion (this is a rare but dangerous reaction called neuroleptic malignant syndrome) — go to the hospital right away. Signs of high blood sugar like excessive thirst
frequent urination
and unusual weakness — contact your doctor promptly.

Drug Interactions

Avoid alcohol completely — it increases the drowsiness and dizziness caused by quetiapine and can be dangerous. Be careful with medicines for high blood pressure as quetiapine can further lower your blood pressure. Tell your doctor if you are taking ketoconazole (antifungal) or HIV medicines like ritonavir, as they can increase the amount of quetiapine in your body.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Quetiapine is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — always consult your doctor before taking it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to quetiapine or any ingredient in the tablet
elderly people with dementia (it increases the risk of stroke and death in this group)
people with a history of low white blood cell count
and people with severe liver problems should not take this drug without close medical supervision.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — this is important in Nigeria's hot climate. Keep the tablets in their original packaging and far away from children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.