From the Research
For a patient with Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) taking Quetiapine 50mg, the recommended rate of increase for Quetiapine dosage is 50mg every 3-7 days, aiming for a target dose of 150-300mg per day, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1. This gradual increase allows the body to adjust to the medication while monitoring for side effects. The exact schedule should be determined by the prescribing physician based on the individual's response and tolerability.
Key Considerations
- Start with 50mg at bedtime for 3-7 days, then increase to 100mg at bedtime for another 3-7 days, and continue this pattern until reaching the target dose or maximum tolerated dose.
- Maintain regular follow-ups with the prescriber during this titration period.
- If side effects occur, the increase can be slowed or the dose temporarily reduced.
Rationale
This approach balances the need for therapeutic effect with minimizing side effects. Quetiapine can cause sedation, weight gain, and metabolic changes, so starting low and increasing slowly allows for better management of these potential issues. The gradual increase also helps in assessing the optimal dose for symptom control in EUPD, as individual responses can vary significantly.
Supporting Evidence
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial 1 found that participants treated with 150 mg/day of quetiapine had a significant reduction in the severity of borderline personality disorder symptoms compared with those who received placebo.
- Another study 2 found that quetiapine was effective in treating patients with schizophrenia at doses of approximately 600 mg per day, but also noted that lower doses may be effective for other psychiatric disorders.
- The most recent and highest quality study 1 provides the best guidance for titrating quetiapine in patients with EUPD, and its findings should be prioritized in clinical decision-making.