Product Description

Quetiapine Tablets IP 25 mg is an oral atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat mental health disorders by modulating neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin in the brain.

It is indicated for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (manic, depressive, and mixed episodes), and as adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD). The "IP" indicates compliance with Indian Pharmacopoeia standards. 

Quetiapine improves mood, thinking, and behavior but does not cure these conditions. Available in tablet form for once- or twice-daily dosing. Requires prescription and regular monitoring due to metabolic and neurological risks.

Avoid it if you have hypersensitivity to quetiapine or excipients. Baseline weight, glucose, lipids, and ECG are recommended.

Uses

Quetiapine 25 mg Tablets IP are indicated for:

• Treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents (≥13 years)

• Treatment of manic, depressive, and mixed episodes in bipolar disorder in adults and children ≥10 years

• Adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder in adults

• Management of irritability associated with autistic disorder (off-label in some regions)

Not for dementia-related psychosis (increased mortality risk) or as monotherapy in severe depression. Combine with psychotherapy for best outcomes; reassess regularly.

How it works

Quetiapine 25 mg Tablets act as an antagonist at multiple neurotransmitter receptors:

• Dopamine D2 receptor antagonism reduces positive psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, delusions).

• Serotonin 5-HT2A receptor antagonism improves negative symptoms and mood.

• Histamine H1 receptor blockade causes sedation.

• Adrenergic α1 receptor antagonism causes vasodilation and orthostatic hypotension.

• Partial agonism at 5-HT1A receptors may contribute to anxiolytic effects.

This receptor profile results in efficacy with a lower risk of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) compared to typical antipsychotics. Steady-state plasma levels are reached in 1–2 days; half-life is approximately 6 hours (extended by active metabolites).

Benefits

Quetiapine 25 mg Tablets provide effective control of psychotic symptoms, mood stabilization in bipolar disorder, and improvement in depressive symptoms when used adjunctively. It reduces hallucinations, delusions, mood swings, and irritability, improving social functioning and quality of life. The sedative properties can help with insomnia and agitation. The flexible dosing allows titration to balance efficacy and tolerability.

How to use

Follow doctor's prescription: The dosage will be determined by your doctor based on your specific condition, age, and response to the medication. Never change or stop your dose without consulting your doctor. Take the tablets at the same time every day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. It is often recommended to take it once or twice daily with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew them. Avoid consuming alcohol while on Quetiapine, as it can increase the sedative effects and enhance other side effects. Driving and machinery: Causes drowsiness or dizziness. Be cautious when driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

Side Effects

Common side effects (10–50% incidence) include:

• Drowsiness, sedation, dizziness (especially early treatment)

• Weight gain (average 2–5 kg)

• Dry mouth, constipation

• Orthostatic hypotension (lightheadedness on standing)

• Increased appetite

• Hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia (metabolic syndrome risk)

• Elevated prolactin (less common than risperidone)

Less common but serious side effects:

• Extrapyramidal symptoms (tremor, akathisia, Parkinsonism)

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (rare but life-threatening)

• Tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements)

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, anaphylaxis)

• Increased risk of stroke and mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis (black-box warning)

• Suicidal thoughts or behavior in young adults and adolescents (monitor closely)

• Priapism (prolonged painful erection)

• Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)

Report any severe or persistent side effects to your doctor immediately.

Safety Advice

Inform your doctor about your full medical history, especially if you have:

• Heart problems (arrhythmias, low blood pressure, history of stroke or heart attack)

• Diabetes or risk factors for metabolic syndrome

• Seizure disorders (quetiapine lowers seizure threshold)

• Parkinson’s disease or dementia with Lewy bodies (may worsen symptoms)

• Liver or kidney disease

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding (use only if benefits outweigh risks)

• Regular monitoring of weight, blood glucose, lipids, and ECG is recommended.

• Avoid alcohol and CNS depressants.

• Use caution when driving or operating machinery due to sedation and dizziness.

Storage Conditions

• Store at a temperature below 30°C (86°F), in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture.

FAQs

What are Quetiapine tablets used for?

Quetiapine is used to treat schizophrenia, manic and depressive episodes of bipolar disorder, and sometimes as an add-on treatment for major depressive disorder.

How does Quetiapine work?

Quetiapine helps balance certain chemical messengers in the brain, primarily dopamine and serotonin, to improve mood, thinking, and behavior.

Is this medication a cure for mental illness?

No, Quetiapine controls symptoms but does not cure the underlying condition.

How long does it take for Quetiapine to work?

Some improvement may be noticed within a few days, but the full therapeutic effects can take 2 to 4 weeks.

Is Quetiapine safe for children?

Quetiapine is used for specific conditions in children and adolescents, such as bipolar mania in those aged 10 and older and schizophrenia in those aged 13 and older, under medical supervision.

How should Quetiapine be taken?

Follow your doctor's instructions exactly. The dosage typically starts low (e.g., 25 mg) and may be increased gradually. It can be taken with or without food. Tablets should be swallowed whole.