What are the most common side effects of quetiapine?

Quetiapine, like any medication, can cause side effects. Here are some more detailed descriptions of the most common side effects of quetiapine:

  1. Drowsiness: Quetiapine can cause drowsiness, which may interfere with daily activities. This side effect is more common when starting the medication or when the dosage is increased, and may improve over time.
  2. Dizziness: Quetiapine can cause dizziness, especially when standing up quickly or changing positions. This side effect may also improve over time.
  3. Dry mouth: Quetiapine can cause a dry mouth, which may increase the risk of dental problems and infections. Drinking water and chewing gum may help to alleviate this side effect.
  4. Constipation: Quetiapine can cause constipation, which may be relieved by increasing fiber and fluid intake and exercising regularly.
  5. Weight gain: Quetiapine can cause weight gain, especially when taken for long periods of time. This side effect may be due to increased appetite and metabolic changes.
  6. Blurred vision: Quetiapine can cause blurred vision, which may be temporary or persistent. This side effect may be more common in older individuals or those with pre-existing eye conditions.
  7. Headache: Quetiapine can cause headaches, which may be mild or severe. This side effect may improve over time or with the use of over-the-counter pain relievers.
  8. Stomach upset: Quetiapine can cause stomach upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This side effect may be relieved by taking the medication with food or adjusting the dosage.
  9. Muscle stiffness: Quetiapine can cause muscle stiffness or rigidity, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back. This side effect may be more common in older individuals or those with pre-existing muscle or joint conditions.
  10. Tiredness: Quetiapine can cause tiredness or fatigue, which may interfere with daily activities. This side effect may improve over time or with adjustments to the dosage or timing of the medication.

It is important to discuss any side effects of quetiapine with a healthcare provider, who can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual needs and medical history.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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