Drugs
Drug that treats symptoms of schizophrenia available for first time as a generic
Americans that suffer the symptoms of schizophrenia now have a new treatment option in generic form. The FDA has approved the first generic versions of Seroquel (quetiapine) tablets.
An anti-psychotic drug, quetiapine treats the symptoms of schizophrenia. Quetiapine is also used alone or with other medications to treat or prevent episodes of mania or depression in patients with bipolar disorder. Quetiapine may be used as part of a treatment program to treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia in children. However, quetiapine is not approved by the FDA for the treatment of behavioral problems in older adults with dementia.
Quetiapine is one of many popular drugs recently approved by the FDA in a generic form. Generic drugs provide safe and effective alternatives to brand name drugs, usually at a lower cost. This approval is an important step in the Agency’s efforts to increase the availability of generic medications.
Schizophrenia is a chronic, severe, and disabling brain disorder. The problem affects around one percent of Americans, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). The NIMH, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), was established with a mission of transforming the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through basic and clinical research. People with the disorder may hear voices other people don't hear. They may believe other people are reading their minds, controlling their thoughts, or plotting to harm them.
Schizophrenia affects both men and women equally. It usually begins in the teen years or young adulthood but may begin later in life. It tends to begin later in women, according to the NIH.
While treatment helps relieve many symptoms of schizophrenia, most people who have the disorder cope with symptoms throughout their lives. Many people with schizophrenia can lead rewarding and meaningful lives in their communities, according to NIMH.
Quetiapine works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain. The medication helps decrease hallucinations, improves concentration, and prevents or decreases severe mood swings.
It is expected that quetiapine tablets will be manufactured in several different strengths.