Quetiapine Alternatives in District of Columbia
Compare generic and therapeutic alternatives to Quetiapine (quetiapine fumarate) available at District of Columbia pharmacies. Save up to 96% on your prescription — no insurance required.
Top Alternatives in District of Columbia
Aripiprazole (generic Abilify)
therapeutic
Less sedating atypical antipsychotic — preferred if activation needed
Avg cash price: $45/mo
Risperidone (generic Risperdal)
therapeutic
Older antipsychotic — very affordable, strong D2 blockade
Avg cash price: $30/mo
Seroquel (brand quetiapine)
brand
Brand name — identical drug at 27× the cost
Avg cash price: $950/mo
District of Columbia Prescription Assistance Programs
DC Medicaid Rx (DC Health Care Alliance)
Prescription drug coverage for DC Medicaid beneficiaries and uninsured DC residents with incomes up to 200% FPL through the DC Health Care Alliance program.
Eligibility: Low-income DC residents including adults up to 215% FPL for Medicaid, and uninsured adults through the Alliance program.
DCPAP (DC Pharmaceutical Assistance Program)
Assists eligible low-income DC seniors with Medicare Part D co-payments and coverage gaps.
Eligibility: DC residents aged 65+ enrolled in Medicare Part D with income at or below 300% FPL. Contact the DC Office on Aging at 202-724-5622.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is quetiapine the same as Seroquel?
Yes — quetiapine is the generic form of Seroquel. It has been generic since 2012 and costs $20–$50/month versus $900+ for brand Seroquel XR.
Why is quetiapine sometimes prescribed for insomnia or anxiety off-label?
At low doses (25–100 mg), quetiapine has strong antihistamine and alpha-blocking properties that cause sedation. It is prescribed off-label for insomnia and anxiety, though this use is debated due to metabolic side effects.
What are the main side effects of quetiapine?
Sedation, weight gain, and metabolic effects (elevated glucose, triglycerides) are the most common. At higher doses, movement-related side effects can occur. Regular metabolic monitoring is recommended.
How does quetiapine compare to aripiprazole for bipolar depression?
Both are FDA-approved for bipolar depression. Quetiapine is more sedating (useful if sleep is a problem); aripiprazole is more activating. Your psychiatrist selects based on the clinical picture.
What does generic quetiapine cost through Script Unlock?
Generic quetiapine is typically $20–$45/month through Script Unlock pharmacies. The XR formulation costs slightly more. Both are dramatic savings versus brand Seroquel.