Key takeaways
Vraylar (cariprazine) and quetiapine (Seroquel) are both atypical antipsychotics used to treat mental health conditions, but they have some key differences. Vraylar is used for schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, and as an add-on for major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. It is taken once a day and is only available as a brand-name medication. Common side effects include uncontrolled muscle movements, headache, and restlessness, but it causes minimal weight gain compared to other antipsychotics. On the other hand, quetiapine is used for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in both adults and children, and its extended-release form can also treat depression when combined with another antidepressant. Quetiapine is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, and it has a generic version. It can cause weight gain, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol levels. While both medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness, quetiapine is more likely to cause sleepiness and difficulty concentrating. Additionally, Vraylar is less likely to cause weight gain but has a higher risk of uncontrolled muscle movements.
