Qutan SR 400 – Strip of 10 Tablets

Description

Qutan SR 400 – Strip of 10 Tablets

Composition (per tablet):

• Quetiapine Fumarate IP equivalent to Quetiapine 400 mg

• Excipients: Q.S. (quantum satis – as required to formulate the tablet)

• Dosage Form: Film-coated sustained-release (SR) tablet

Drug Classification:

• Therapeutic Class: Atypical Antipsychotic (Second-generation)

• ATC Code: N05AH04 (Quetiapine)

Indications / Uses:

Qutan SR 400 is used to treat:

• Schizophrenia

• Bipolar disorder (both manic and depressive episodes)

• Adjunct in major depressive disorder (off-label in some cases)

• Generalized anxiety disorder (off-label)

The sustained-release formulation allows for once-daily dosing, which improves compliance and maintains steady blood levels.

Mechanism of Action:

Quetiapine works by modulating dopamine (D2) and serotonin (5-HT2A) receptors, balancing mood and psychotic symptoms.

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness or sedation

• Dizziness

• Dry mouth

• Constipation

• Weight gain

• Orthostatic hypotension

• Increased blood sugar or cholesterol levels (long-term use)

Important Warnings:

• Not recommended in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis (increased risk of death)

• Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, seizure history, or liver impairment

• Avoid abrupt discontinuation – taper slowly to prevent withdrawal or relapse

• May impair mental alertness; caution when driving or operating machinery

Administration:

• Route: Oral

• Frequency: Typically once daily (evening)

• Swallow whole – do not crush or chew