Key takeaways
Thiothixene (Navane) and quetiapine (Seroquel and Seroquel XR) are both used to treat schizophrenia, but they belong to different classes of antipsychotics. Thiothixene is a first-generation (typical) antipsychotic, while quetiapine is a second-generation (atypical) antipsychotic. Thiothixene works by lowering dopamine levels in the brain, which can help with symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. However, it can cause more uncontrolled muscle movements compared to quetiapine. On the other hand, quetiapine affects both dopamine and serotonin levels and is also used to treat bipolar disorder and as an add-on for depression. Quetiapine is more likely to cause weight gain and raise blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Both medications are available in generic forms, but quetiapine offers both immediate-release and extended-release options, which can be more convenient.
