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Difference Between Seroquel & Seroquel XR

Seroquel and Seroquel XR ("extended release") are proprietary names for a generic drug known as quetiapine fumerate. According to the manufacturer AstraZeneca, both drugs can be used to treat schizophrenia and are effective for the same types of bipolar disorder.

  1. Identification

    • According to AstraZeneca, Seroquel is available in 25, 50, 100, 200, 300, and 400 milligram tablets. Seroquel XR comes in 50, 150, 200, 300, and 400 milligram tablets.

    Features

    • Seroquel and Seroquel XR pills vary in size, color, and shape to reflect the dose. For example, 200 milligram tablets of Seroquel are round and white with "Seroquel 200" written on one side, while 200 milligram tablets of Seroquel XR are yellow and capsule-shaped, with "XR 300" inscribed on one side.

    Time Frame

    • Seroquel tablets may be given either once, twice, or three times a day and are short-acting. Seroquel XR is taken once a day, preferably in the evening, and works over 24 hours.

    Benefits of Extended Relief

    • It's easier for people with psychiatric disorders to remember to take one dose of Seroquel a night, rather than several doses a day.

    Warnings

    • Seroquel and Seroquel XR both carry black box warnings indicating the potential for increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis and increased risk of suicide in children, teens, and young adults.

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