Seroquel (quetiapine) is a commonly prescribed antipsychotic medication for treating depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. It works by affecting dopamine and serotonin (neurotransmitters in the brain) to effectively regulate mood and reduce symptoms like mania, psychosis, and depression. Despite a known efficacy, many people seek Seroquel alternatives for a variety of reasons. They might be experiencing unwanted Seroquel side effects, high costs, not getting the desired results, lack of accessibility, or a desire for a more natural approach.
Whatever your reason is for wanting to find a different drug than Seroquel, keep reading to explore pharmaceutical and natural alternatives to Seroquel for bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia. We’ll also look at key considerations you should think about before choosing another alternative medication option. Working closely with a healthcare provider to find an alternative treatment or antipsychotic medication that best fits your needs is essential — and educating yourself on the process is smart. Consultations with a healthcare provider ensure you choose antipsychotic drugs that properly address your mental health condition.
Alternative Medications to Seroquel
| Brand Name | Generic Name | Class of Drugs | Conditions it Treats | Top Side Effects |
| Abilify | Aripiprazole | Atypical antipsychotic | Bipolar disorder MDD Schizophrenia |
Insomnia Weight gain |
| Latuda | Lurasidone | Atypical antipsychotic | Bipolar depression Schizophrenia |
Sedation Nausea |
| Risperdal | Risperidone | Atypical antipsychotic | Bipolar mania Schizophrenia |
Weight gain Dizziness |
| Zyprexa | Olanzapine | Atypical antipsychotic | Bipolar disorder Schizophrenia |
Sedation Increased appetite |
| Rexulti | Brexpiprazole | Atypical antipsychotic | Depression (adjunct) Schizophrenia |
Weight gain Fatigue |
If you’re looking for an alternative to Seroquel, you can consider several other excellent and effective medications. A different antipsychotic drug than quetiapine that’s also designed to treat specific mental health conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia might be better for your needs.
“Alternatives can come from the same class of medication like Abilify, Latuda, Rexulti, Saphris, Caplyta, and Vraylar. At times, your psychiatrist may consider using lithium, Tegretol, Trileptal, or Depakote if clinically appropriate to regulate the mood symptoms.”
Talkspace psychiatrist Dr. Muhammad Munir
Talk to your doctor or a mental health provider to discuss other drugs that can be an option based on your individual health profile, tolerance level for side effects, and treatment goals. Remember that the right antipsychotic medication can effectively manage psychosis and mood disorders with minimal adverse side effects. Some common alternatives are found below.
Abilify (aripiprazole)
Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic prescription drug (like Seroquel) that works by stabilizing dopamine and serotonin activity in the brain. It’s commonly used to treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia and is frequently suggested as an alternative to quetiapine by medical practitioners. When combined with antidepressants, it’s been found effective in clinical trials in treating depression in some people.
Abilify offers flexibility in dosing and is generally well-tolerated, so it might be a good option to consider. Additionally, it has fewer metabolic adverse effects — compared to some other atypical antipsychotics, it is less likely to change blood sugar or cholesterol levels.
- Medication class: Atypical antipsychotic
- Conditions it treats: Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, MDD, Tourette syndrome, and some symptoms related to autism
- Top side effects: Insomnia, anxiety, weight gain, nausea
Comparing Abilify vs. Seroquel can help determine which option might be better suited for your specific condition and needs.
Latuda (lurasidone)
Latuda is another atypical antipsychotic prescription that’s primarily used to treat bipolar depression and schizophrenia. According to studies, it’s also relatively weight-neutral, which makes it a popular choice for anyone concerned about weight gain. It is also praised for its efficacy in controlling depressive symptoms without causing excessive sedation or cognitive decline, offering possible advantages over other drugs.
- Medication class: Atypical antipsychotic
- Conditions it treats: Bipolar depression, schizophrenia
- Top side effects: Sedation, nausea, agitation, drowsiness, weight gain
Risperdal (risperidone)
Risperdal is commonly prescribed medication for schizophrenia, bipolar mania, and sometimes for irritability associated with autism. These psychiatric medications also play a role in managing symptoms of mental disorders, allowing for possible mood stabilization. It’s also in the class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics and works by blocking dopamine and serotonin receptors to reduce psychotic symptoms.
Risperdal is very effective in treating manic episodes and aggression, so it’s often a preferred choice for acute management. That said, it does have some side effects worth monitoring — like weight gain or prolactin elevation — particularly during long-term use. Increased dosage over long-term use should be discussed with a healthcare provider to prevent adverse effects.
- Medication class: Atypical antipsychotic
- Conditions it treats: Schizophrenia, bipolar mania, and autism spectrum disorder
- Top side effects: Constipation, weight gain, increased appetite, dizziness, restlessness
Zyprexa (olanzapine)
Zyprexa can be used to manage bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Because the prescription drug is so effective in controlling acute manic episodes, it’s a strong contender as a Seroquel alternative for bipolar disorder. Zyprexa also has a rapid onset of action when following the proper dosage regimen, which is helpful for anyone experiencing severe agitation or psychosis. However, Zyprexa is associated with significant weight gain and metabolic concerns, so it may not be ideal for patients with pre-existing weight or blood sugar issues or those going through long-term treatment.
- Medication class: Atypical antipsychotic
- Conditions it treats: Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and treatment-resistant depression (when used in combination with Fluoxetine)
- Top side effects: Weight gain, increased appetite, sedation
Rexulti (brexpiprazole)
Rexulti is similar to Abilify and is used as an adjunctive treatment for depression, providing alternative options for managing this mental health condition. It can be used as a standalone treatment for schizophrenia, is suitable for mood stabilization, and has fewer side effects than other antipsychotic drugs. It can be a good choice for people who might be sensitive to other medications, but should be closely monitored by doctors for any adverse effects.
Rexulti can help improve both cognitive and mood symptoms, which can be beneficial for those struggling with the emotional and functional challenges of their mental health condition. It can cause some metabolic side effects, so regular monitoring is still recommended.
- Medication class: Atypical antipsychotic
- Conditions it treats: Depression (adjunct), schizophrenia
- Top side effects: Weight gain, restlessness, fatigue
Natural/Non-Pharmaceutical Alternatives to Seroquel
If you’re looking for natural alternatives to Seroquel, there are multiple therapies and holistic strategies to consider. Many people find natural ways to manage symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia without relying solely on medication. That said, the approaches with the best outcomes most often use a comprehensive, combined treatment plan alongside medication.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapies can provide benefits for your mental health without the need for antipsychotic medications. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely used form of psychotherapy that helps you identify and change negative and unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors. It’s especially effective for depression and can also treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia by helping people learn to manage their symptoms in healthy ways. For example, CBT provides coping skills for managing emotional regulation and mood swings.
“CBT, supportive therapy, interpersonal therapy, and insight-oriented therapy are helpful while managing the mood symptoms. Couples and family therapy is also utilized while improving understanding of the mood patterns of family members.”
Talkspace psychiatrist Dr. Muhammad Munir
Mindfulness and meditation
Mindfulness practices, like meditation, are excellent for reducing stress, improving emotional regulation, and managing symptoms of mood disorders. It enhances awareness of emotions, focuses on staying in the present, and helps limit unhealthy reactions to negative thoughts. This technique can be powerful for those with depression, anxiety, and other stress-related conditions.
Nutritional therapy
A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamin D can positively impact brain health and emotional well-being by supporting neurotransmitter function and mood stability. Nutritional therapy may help alleviate depression and mild bipolar symptoms while enhancing overall brain function. Incorporating these nutrients through diet or supplements can be a natural way to support mental health.
Exercise
Regular physical activity is a natural mood booster that releases endorphins and improves sleep quality. It’s been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety while improving overall mental health. Research also suggests it can help people with bipolar disorder sleep better and reduce symptoms of schizophrenia.
Considerations When Choosing a Seroquel Alternative
When choosing the right alternative for Seroquel, you need to carefully consider multiple factors, including:
- Personal health history: Some medications aren’t suitable for certain medical conditions or health histories.
- Side effect profiles: Compare the side effects of alternative treatments to find the best fit for your lifestyle, goals, and tolerance.
- Cost and accessibility: Insurance coverage and medication costs can vary widely, so affordability can significantly affect what drugs you try.
- Lifestyle compatibility: Think about how any treatment you’re considering aligns with your daily activities and routines.
It’s crucial to consult with a doctor or healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan to avoid any potential adverse outcomes. Abruptly stopping Seroquel or starting a new medication without guidance from your doctor can lead to adverse effects, like Seroquel withdrawal, or cause major treatment setbacks.
Find the Right Alternative with Talkspace
If you’ve been looking for Seroquel alternatives — whether you want a different drug or you’re looking for a natural solution — Talkspace can connect you with an online psychiatrist or therapist who can help guide your treatment plan. With Talkspace, you can openly discuss your symptoms, explore options, and receive expert advice on managing your mental health, all in a safe, convenient online format. With our psychiatric providers, you can even get an online prescription for Seroquel or its alternatives.
Take the first step today and connect with an online psychiatrist so you can discuss alternatives to Seroquel and start your journey to better mental health.
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