Seroquel Metabolism
The most common indications for Seroquel (quetiapine fumarate) are schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. As with most drugs, the metabolism of Seroquel affects its efficacy and risk profile.
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Dosage Forms and Strengths
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According to the 2010 "Mosby's Nursing Drug Reference", available dosage strengths for regular Seroquel tablets include 25, 50, 100, 200, 300 and 400 mg. Extended-release tablets exist in 200, 300 and 400 mg dosages.
Mechanism of Action & Half-Life
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Seroquel works by blocking the receptors of several neurotransmitters (brain chemical messengers). The 2010 "Mosby's Nursing Drug Reference" notes that its half-life, which is an indicator of its duration of action, averages a minimum of six hours.
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Absorption and Distribution
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The body rapidly absorbs and widely distributes Seroquel. According to Rx List, Seroquel's blood concentration generally peaks within 1.5 hours after oral administration. About 83 percent of a therapeutic dose is bound to plasma proteins, which facilitates distribution.
Liver Metabolism
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The liver extensively metabolizes Seroquel via the cytochrome P450 enzyme system and diverse metabolic pathways involving chemical reactions, such as sulfoxidation and oxidation.
Main Metabolic Products
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Metabolic products (metabolites) may be inactive, or still have effects on the body. Rx List notes that Seroquel metabolism yields a major, but inactive, sulfoxide metabolite, as well as a minor active metabolite called N-desalkyl quetiapine.
Elimination
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According to RX List, the body excretes about 73 percent of an administered dose in the urine, while approximately 20 percent is eliminated via the fecal route. Less than 1 percent of an oral dose is excreted as unchanged (non-metabolized) drug.
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References
- Rx List: Seroquel
- "Mosby's Nursing Drug Reference (23rd Edition);" Linda Skidmore-Roth; 2010
