Seroquel XR | quetiapine extended release 

Medication Class: Atypical antipsychotic
Manufacturer: Astrazeneca
Approval Date: May 2007

What is Seroquel XR and how does it work

Seroquel XR is an atypical antipsychotic that theoretically works by reducing the effect of neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin) in the brain by blocking their receptors. It also blocks the effect of histamine. It is the extended release formulation of Seroquel.

What does Seroquel XR treat

• Schizophrenia
• Acute treatment of bipolar disorder
• Depression associated with bipolar disorder (bipolar depression)
• Maintenance (long-term) treatment of bipolar disorder
• Used in combination with antidepressants for treatment of depression (major depressive disorder; MDD)

How effective is Seroquel XR

• Seroquel XR 400 mg, 600 mg, or 800 mg once daily were better than placebo in reducing symptoms of schizophrenia in adults after 6 weeks of treatment. The difference in effect was evident by day 42. In another study patients who continued Seroquel XR after 16 weeks of treatment were less likely to relapse.
• Seroquel XR 400 to 800 mg daily was more effective than placebo in treating manic episodes of bipolar disorder after 3 weeks.
• Seroquel XR 300 mg daily was more effective than placebo in reducing symptoms of depression associated with bipolar disorder after 8 weeks of treatment. A 600 mg dose did not show additional benefit.
• Seroquel XR was more effective than placebo in reducing time to occurrence of bipolar symptoms in long term studies of patients stabilized on lithium or divalproex. Approximately 50% of patients receiving Seroquel discontinued treatment by day 280.
• Seroquel XR 150 or 300 mg daily combined with an antidepressant was better than antidepressant alone in reducing symptoms of depression in patients who had an inadequate response to at least one antidepressant.

What are interesting facts about Seroquel XR

• It is used for short and long-term treatment of bipolar disorder
• It is used for treating depression

What is the Dosage of Seroquel XR 

Seroquel XR tablets are administered orally without food or with a light meal (300 calories) once daily preferably in the evening.

Schizophrenia: 400-800 mg daily

Bipolar mania: 400-800 mg daily

Bipolar depression: 300 mg daily

Bipolar disorder long-term treatment: 400-800 mgDepression: 150-300 mg daily

What are the side effects of Seroquel XR

Common: drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, stuffy nose, weight gain, increased liver enzymes, stomach upset, fatigue, increased appetite, nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate, low blood pressure when arising from a sitting or lying position, irritability, withdrawal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, insomnia).

Serious: increased blood glucose, diabetes, low blood pressure, fainting, neuroleptic, malignant syndrome, extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia (abnormal movement), low level of red and white blood cells, long and lasting painful erection, suicide, worsening depression, hypothyroidism, high blood pressure, seizure, severe low blood pressure, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), abnormal heart beats or rhythm.

Seroquel XR drug interactions

• Protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir)
• ketoconazole, Diflucan (fluconazole), Sporanox (itraconzaole)
• thioridazine
• rifampin
• phenytoin
• divalproex
• carbamezepine
• levodopa

What is the cost of Seroquel XR

Cost about $10 to $38 per tablet.

How to obtain prescription assistance for Seroquel XR

For prescription assistance for Seroquel visit Astrazeneca patient assistance program

References: Seroquel XR FDA Prescribing Information and Medication Guide

Related Article:

Seroquel medication monograph

This medication summary is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider.