Abilify vs. Seroquel: Comparing two treatments for schizophrenia & bipolar disorder

Abilify (aripiprazole) and Seroquel (quetiapine) are both second-generation antipsychotics used to treat various mental health conditions. Understanding their differences is crucial for determining the best treatment approach.

How Abilify and Seroquel Work

Abilify acts as a partial agonist at dopamine receptors and also affects serotonin levels which helps improve mood and behavior. Seroquel works by antagonizing serotonin and dopamine receptors, balancing chemicals in the brain to improve mood and alleviate psychotic symptoms.

Indications for Use

Seroquel is used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder episodes, and as an adjunct for major depression. Abilify is approved for schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, Tourette’s syndrome, major depressive disorder (as an add-on), and irritability associated with autism.

Common Side Effects

Both medications have side effects such as headache, dizziness, and sedation. Seroquel may also cause significant weight gain and has a risk for serious conditions like neuroleptic malignant syndrome and tardive dyskinesia. Abilify can increase the risk of stroke in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis and also cause weight gain and metabolic changes.

Drug Interactions

Abilify and Seroquel interact with drugs that influence the CYP3A4 enzyme, among others. It’s important to discuss all medications and supplements with a healthcare provider to avoid adverse interactions.

Effectiveness and Tolerability

Studies have shown that both medications are effective for schizophrenia. Seroquel may have an edge in treating depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder, while both are generally well tolerated when prescribed correctly.

Pregnancy and Alcohol Use

Taking these medications during pregnancy can be risky, especially during the third trimester. Alcohol should be avoided as it can exacerbate side effects and worsen symptoms of mental disorders.

Sources

  • Leucht S, et al. “Comparative efficacy and tolerability of 15 antipsychotic drugs in schizophrenia: a multiple-treatments meta-analysis.” Lancet. 2013.
  • Shoja Shafti S, Kaviani H. “Quetiapine versus aripiprazole in the management of schizophrenia.” Ther Adv Psychopharmacol. 2015.
  • Viguera AC, et al. “Reproductive safety of second-generation antipsychotics: updated data from the Massachusetts General Hospital National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics.” J Clin Psychiatry. 2021.
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness. “Aripiprazole (Abilify).”
  • Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc. “Abilify (aripiprazole).” Updated 2024.
  • AstraZeneca. “Seroquel (quetiapine).” Updated 2021.