High- v. low-dose quetiapine in schizophrenia: Meta-analysis

Abstract

Aims and method: To study the difference between high- and low-dose quetiapine in acute treatment of schizophrenia. Data available from published double-blind fixeddose trials were combined and analysed. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between high- (750-800 mg/day) and low-dose (300-400 mg/day) quetiapine in terms of the response rate, change in positive symptoms score and the discontinuation rates either as a result of lack of response or adverse effects. Clinical implications: Combined evidence from fixed-dose trials does not support the prevalent practice of targeting the higher dose of quetiapine for optimal treatment response in schizophrenia. Declaration of interest: None.