Key takeaways
Quetiapine (Seroquel) and ziprasidone (Geodon) are both atypical antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, but they have some key differences. Quetiapine is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, while ziprasidone is available as an oral capsule and an injection. Quetiapine is generally taken 2 to 3 times a day, while ziprasidone is generally taken twice daily with food. Quetiapine can also be used as an add-on treatment for depression, whereas ziprasidone is not indicated for this use. Quetiapine is more likely to cause weight gain and raise blood sugar and cholesterol levels compared to ziprasidone, which has a lower risk of weight gain. However, ziprasidone is more likely to cause uncontrolled body movements. Both medications can cause serious side effects like suicidal thoughts, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, and higher risk of death in older people with dementia-related psychosis. Both medications are available as low-cost generics.
