Quetiapine fumarate 25 mg tablets are used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder [1]. They are an immediate-release formulation [2].
What is Quetiapine Fumarate Used For?
Quetiapine fumarate is prescribed for several mental health conditions. It is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents aged 13 years and older [1]. For bipolar disorder, it is used to treat manic episodes in adults and children aged 10 years and older with manic bipolar I disorder, depressive episodes in adults with bipolar I or II disorder, and maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder in adults [1]. Quetiapine fumarate is also used as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder in adults [1].
How Does Quetiapine Fumarate Work?
Quetiapine fumarate is an atypical antipsychotic medication [3]. It works by affecting the activity of certain chemicals in the brain, known as neurotransmitters [1]. Specifically, it is thought to block dopamine and serotonin receptors [3]. By altering the balance of these neurotransmitters, it can help to manage symptoms associated with psychosis, mania, and depression [1][3].
What is the Difference Between Quetiapine Fumarate Immediate-Release and Extended-Release?
Quetiapine fumarate is available in both immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (XR) formulations [2]. The 25 mg tablet is typically an immediate-release form, meaning the medication is released into the body quickly after administration [2]. Extended-release formulations are designed to release the medication slowly over a longer period, requiring less frequent dosing [2]. The choice between IR and XR formulations depends on the specific condition being treated and the prescribing physician's recommendation [2].
When Does the Patent for Quetiapine Fumarate Expire?
The patent protection for quetiapine fumarate has largely expired, allowing for the availability of generic versions [4]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent expirations for pharmaceuticals [4]. The original drug, Seroquel, was developed by AstraZeneca. While specific patent expiry dates can be complex due to various patents covering different aspects of the drug, the market has been open to generic competition for some time [4].
Can Generic Quetiapine Fumarate Be Prescribed?
Yes, generic versions of quetiapine fumarate are available [4]. Once the patents expire, other pharmaceutical companies can manufacture and market their own versions of the drug. Generic medications are bioequivalent to their brand-name counterparts, meaning they have the same active ingredient, dosage form, strength, and route of administration [5]. They are generally more affordable than brand-name drugs [5].
What are the Side Effects of Quetiapine Fumarate?
Common side effects of quetiapine fumarate can include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, weight gain, and blurred vision [1]. More serious side effects, though less common, can include movement disorders (like tardive dyskinesia), metabolic changes (such as increased cholesterol and blood sugar levels), and a low white blood cell count [1]. Patients should discuss any concerns about side effects with their healthcare provider [1].
How Should Quetiapine Fumarate 25 mg Tablets Be Taken?
Quetiapine fumarate 25 mg tablets are typically taken once or twice daily, with or without food, as prescribed by a doctor [1]. It is important to take the medication at the same time(s) each day to maintain a consistent level in the body [1]. Patients should not stop taking the medication abruptly without consulting their healthcare provider, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a return of their condition [1].
Who Manufactures Quetiapine Fumarate?
The original brand-name quetiapine fumarate was manufactured by AstraZeneca under the brand name Seroquel [4]. Following patent expirations, numerous generic pharmaceutical companies now produce and distribute quetiapine fumarate, including 25 mg tablets [4].
Sources:
[1] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/020640s040,021091s017,021524s014lbl.pdf
[2] https://www.drugbank.ca/drugs/quetiapine
[3] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/quetiapine/
[4] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/quetiapine
[5] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drugs/what-generics-are-and-how-they-work