Journal Article Summary
The article discusses a case involving quetiapine, an atypical antipsychotic medication commonly used to treat various psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. While peripheral edema, or swelling, is often associated with other antipsychotics like olanzapine, reports of this side effect with quetiapine, especially in its extended-release (XR) form, are rare. Understanding the potential for edema with quetiapine XR is important for clinicians, as it can affect patient safety and medication adherence.
The case presented involves a 52-year-old woman diagnosed with a severe major depressive episode who was switched from immediate-release quetiapine to the XR formulation. Within ten days of starting the XR version, she developed noticeable swelling in her lower legs, which resolved after discontinuing the medication and recurred when she was re-exposed to it. Comprehensive medical evaluations ruled out other causes of edema, leading to a strong suspicion that the quetiapine XR was responsible for her symptoms.
The article notes several limitations, including the rarity of reported cases and the potential for underreporting of side effects. It emphasizes the importance of discussing any new symptoms, such as swelling, with a healthcare professional, especially when starting or changing medications. Patients should be aware of the possibility of edema with quetiapine XR, even at low doses, and clinicians should consider a dechallenge-rechallenge approach to confirm medication-related side effects.
Medical Safety Note
This journal article summary is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
Article Cited
- Chatterjee Seshadri Sekhar, Mukherjee Shatavisa, Das Soumitra, Kayal Mridula, Mondal Saswata. Quetiapine Extended-Release and Peripheral Edema: A Case Report and Literature Review. Case Reports in Psychiatry 2025. DOI: 10.1155/crps/5806365. PMID: 41211119. PMCID: PMC12595240.
Featured Pill Pals Product
Citalopram 10 mg Tablets --- Generic For Celexa --- Mylan
Citalopram 10 mg Tablets — Generic For Celexa — Mylan is available through Pill Pals Pharmacy with cash-pay pharmacy pricing and free shipping where available. Prescription required.
Request a prescription transfer and our pharmacy team will help coordinate the next step.
