Olanzapine
Generic Name:
Olanzapine
Brand Names:
Zyprexa, Zyprexa InraMuscular, Zyprexa Relprevv, Zyprexa Zydis
Olanzapine is also used with fluoxetine in the combination medication known as Symbyax.
Olanzapine Description:
Olanzapine belongs to a group of medications known as atypical antipsychotics. It is used in the treatment of mental conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and treatment-resistant depression. While the exact mechanisms of olanzapine are unknown, experts believe the medication affects levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, which are believed to be key factors in the development of many mental disorders.
Olanzapine Side Effects:
Common side effects of olanzapine include:
- Blurred vision
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Changes in behavior
- Dizziness
- Tremors
- Dry mouth
- Restlessness
- Hard or infrequent stools
- Increased appetite
- Swelling of hands or feet
Olanzapine may be associated with other side effects.
For more information, see our olanzapine side effects page.
Olanzapine Uses:
Olanzapine is used in the treatment of mental conditions including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and treatment resistant depression.
Patients with schizophrenia often experience delusions or hallucinations, and the condition can cause patients to withdraw from daily activities and interaction with others. Bipolar disorder is a condition characterized by fluctuating mood swings that oscillate between episodes of severe mania and severe depression. Patients with treatment-resistant depression generally have not experienced success with previous therapy intended to treat their depression.
Olanzapine Interactions:
Patients should speak with their doctor about the use of any medications, vitamins or supplements before taking olanzapine.
Olanzapine may adversely interact with the following medications and substances:
- Alcohol
- Antihypertensive agents
- Carbamazepine
- Diazepam
- Fluvoxamine
- Levodopa and Dopamine Agonists
- Lorazepam
- Other medications that act on the central nervous system
Olanzapine is often used in combination medications that may interact with additional drugs or substances. When used with fluoxetine hydrochloride in combination medications such as Symbyax, the following medications may cause negative interactions:
- Antidepressants
- Benzodiazepines
- Clozapine
- Haloperidol
- Medications metabolized by CYP2D6
- Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors
- Pimozide
- Thioridazine
Olanzapine Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Olanzapine dosages may vary among patients depending upon the condition for which the medication is being used and the particular circumstances of each patient. Your doctor will establish the size and frequency of your dosage according to your individual needs. It is important to follow the dosage guidelines established by your doctor.
Olanzapine is available in the form of an oral tablet and an intramuscular injection. Patients who take olanzapine in the form of an oral tablet usually take the medication in a single daily dosage in the evening.
Health care professionals generally administer the medication to patients who receive olanzapine in the form of an intramuscular injection.
It may take a few weeks for patients to experience the benefits of olanzapine treatment. Patients should not stop taking olanzapine, even if they begin feeling better, without first speaking with their doctor.
Missing a Dose of Olanzapine
If you forget to take a dose of olanzapine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosage schedule. Do not consume a double dose of this medication.
Olanzapine Overdose
An overdose of olanzapine may result in serious complications and, in some cases, death. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they believe they may have overdosed on this medication.
Olanzapine FDA Approval:
September 30, 1996
Olanzapine Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Olanzapine medications carry a black box warning stating the medications should not be used in the treatment of elderly patients with dementia. The use of olanzapine for this purpose has resulted in an increased risk of death.
Medications containing olanzapine may also increase the risk of suicide in children, adolescents and adults. Young patients should be closely monitored for abnormal changes in behavior or suicidal thoughts while undergoing treatment.
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