Zyprexa

Description

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic used to manage serious mental health conditions. It works by balancing dopamine and serotonin in the brain, helping to improve mood, thinking, and behavior.

Uses

• Schizophrenia.

• Bipolar disorder (mania, mixed episodes, and maintenance therapy).

• May also be used off-label for other mood-related conditions as prescribed.

How It Works

Olanzapine blocks specific brain receptors for serotonin and dopamine. This helps control symptoms like hallucinations, mood swings, and disorganized thinking.

Dosage Forms

• Tablets: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg.

• Orally Disintegrating Tablets (ODT): 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg.

• Injection: Short-acting (emergency use) and long-acting depot (Zyprexa Relprevv).

Storage

• Tablets/ODT: Store at room temperature (20°C–25°C), away from moisture and light.

• Keep ODT tablets in original foil until use—do not push through foil.

• Injection: Given in hospital/clinic only.

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness, lack of energy.

• Dry mouth, constipation.

• Increased appetite, weight gain.

• Dizziness, restlessness, tremors.

• In adolescents: headache, stomach pain, tiredness.

Serious Side Effects

• Metabolic effects: High blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides.

• Weight gain (notable in children/teens).

• Movement disorders: Tremors, stiffness, tardive dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements).

• Orthostatic hypotension: Dizziness/fainting when standing.

• Seizures (rare).

• Blood disorders: Low white blood cell count (risk of infection).

• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): Rare, serious condition with high fever, muscle stiffness.

• Allergic reactions (DRESS): Rash, swelling, organ involvement.

Seek immediate medical help if serious symptoms occur.

Warnings & Precautions

• Not approved for dementia-related psychosis (higher risk of death/stroke).

• Use with caution in patients with heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, seizures, liver problems, or glaucoma.

• Avoid alcohol (increases drowsiness and fainting risk).

• May impair alertness/coordination—use caution when driving.

• Long-acting injection requires 3-hour clinic observation after dose.

• Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Use only if benefits outweigh risks.

Interactions

• May interact with:

  • Carbamazepine (lowers olanzapine levels).

  • Fluvoxamine (increases olanzapine levels).

  • Blood pressure medicines (increase risk of low BP).

  • Anticholinergics (increase constipation, urinary retention).

  • Dopamine agonists (e.g., for Parkinson’s—reduced effect).

• Avoid combining with other olanzapine-containing drugs (e.g., Symbyax).

Missed/Overdose

• Missed dose (oral): Take when remembered unless close to next dose. Do not double doses.

• Missed injection: Call clinic to reschedule as soon as possible.

• Overdose: Can cause severe drowsiness, agitation, confusion, fast heartbeat, seizures. Call emergency services immediately.

Doctor’s Review

Dr. Ayesha Rahman, Consultant Psychiatrist:
“Olanzapine is an effective antipsychotic widely used for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It helps stabilize mood and control psychotic symptoms, though monitoring for weight gain, metabolic changes, and movement effects is essential.”

Disclaimer

This profile is for educational purposes only. Always use Olanzapine strictly under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.