Zyprexa (Olanzapine)

Description

Indications

Olanzapine is indicated for the treatment of specific mental and mood disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It may be prescribed in conjunction with other medications for depression management.

This medication is known to reduce hallucinations, promote clearer and more positive self-perception, alleviate agitation, and facilitate increased participation in daily activities. Olanzapine is classified as an atypical antipsychotic and functions by restoring the equilibrium of certain naturally occurring substances in the brain.

Uses and Dosage

Olanzapine is available in tablet and orally disintegrating tablet form for oral administration. It is typically taken once daily, with or without food, at approximately the same time each day. To ensure safe and effective use, carefully follow the instructions on the prescription label and consult your physician or pharmacist if any questions arise.

Adhere strictly to the prescribed dose and schedule, do not adjust the dose or frequency of administration without the guidance of your doctor.

To use the orally disintegrating tablet, refrain from pushing it through the foil. Instead, use dry hands to peel back the packaging, remove the tablet and place it in your mouth. The tablet will dissolve quickly and may be ingested with or without liquid.

Your doctor may initiate therapy with a low dose of olanzapine, gradually increasing the dose until the optimal level is reached.

Olanzapine can help manage your symptoms, but it is not a curative treatment. Several weeks or more may pass before you experience the full benefits of olanzapine. Continue taking the medication, even if you start feeling better. Discontinuation of olanzapine should only be done under the guidance of a physician, who will likely recommend a gradual tapering of the dose.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• acid or sour stomach
• back pain
• belching
• change in personality
• difficulty having a bowel movement (stool)
• discouragement
• feeling sad or empty
• fever
• heartburn
• increased appetite
• increased cough
• indigestion
• lack of appetite
• lack or loss of strength
• loss of interest or pleasure
• runny nose
• sneezing
• stomach discomfort, upset, or pain
• stuffy nose
• thirst
• trouble sleeping
• trouble with concentrating
• watering of the mouth

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet
• blurred vision
• change in vision
• change in walking and balance
• clumsiness or unsteadiness
• difficulty with speaking
• difficulty with swallowing
• drooling
• impaired vision
• inability to sit still
• loss of balance control
• mask-like face
• muscle trembling, jerking, or stiffness
• need to keep moving
• rapid weight gain
• restlessness
• shuffling walk
• slowed movements
• slurred speech
• stiffness of the arms and legs
• jerky movements of the head, face, mouth, and neck
• tingling of the hands or feet
• trembling or shaking of the fingers, hands, feet, legs, or arms
• twisting movements of the body
• uncontrolled movements, especially of the face, neck, and back
• unusual weight gain or loss

Caution

Before taking olanzapine, inform your healthcare provider of any allergies you may have or any other medications you are currently taking. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other health problems.

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history before using this medication. This includes any liver problems, seizures, difficulty swallowing, low white blood cell count, dementia, difficulty urinating, glaucoma, stomach/intestinal problems, smoking, personal or family history of diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol/triglyceride levels, or breathing trouble during sleep.

This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness and can be intensified when consumed with alcohol or marijuana. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as operating machinery or driving, until it is safe to do so.

This medication can decrease sweating, leading to an increased risk of heat stroke. Avoid activities that may cause overheating, especially during hot weather. Ensure that you stay hydrated and dress lightly during hot weather.

Teenagers may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medication, such as weight gain and increased levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and prolactin.

Older adults may also be more susceptible to the side effects, including drowsiness, constipation, trouble urinating, confusion, dizziness, and lightheadedness, which can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should only be used when absolutely necessary. It may cause adverse effects in newborns, including muscle stiffness or shakiness, drowsiness, feeding and breathing difficulties, and constant crying. If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn, inform your doctor immediately.

Continue taking this medication as directed by your healthcare provider, as untreated mental or mood problems can have serious consequences.

If you are nursing, inform your doctor, as this medication can be passed into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on your nursing infant.

Form and Strength

Zyprexa is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Zyprexa tablet:
  • 2.5mg
  • 5mg
  • 7.5mg
  • 10mg
• olanzapine film-coated tablet:
  • 2.5mg
  • 5mg
  • 7.5mg
  • 10mg
  • 15mg
  • 20mg

FAQ

Is Zyprexa a mood stabilizer or antipsychotic?

Zyprexa is an atypical antipsychotic that can help improve mood, thoughts, and behaviors for people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Will Zyprexa calm you down?

Soon after you first start taking olanzapine, before your other symptoms improve, it may make you feel more relaxed and calm.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/olanzapine/what-is
2. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/olanzapine/#:~:text=Soon%20after%20you%20first%20start,group%20of%20medicines%20called%20antipsychotics
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/olanzapine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20071350?p=1
4. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18192-olanzapine-tablets
5. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1699/zyprexa-oral/details
6. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601213.html
7. https://www.drugs.com/zyprexa.html