Atypical antipsychotic (medicine for mental health conditions)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
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.
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.
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
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for it.
This is a serious prescription medicine, so 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.
Avoid alcohol completely, as 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.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Quetiapine with your other drugs?
Quetiapine is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so always consult your doctor before taking it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, which 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.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.