Olanzapine (Zyprexa) side effects and uses

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Brand Name: Zyprexa

Uses of Olanzapine:

Olanzapine is a novel antipsychotic agent marketed by Lilly & Co. Zyprexa is a thienobenzodiazepine used to treat emotional and mood disorders.

Olanzapine is also sometimes used for the treatment of other emotional or mental problems like manic-depressive illness, bipolar disorder, or behavioral problems that occur with dementia.

How to Take Olanzapine

Take this medicine as directed. It can be taken with or without food. Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting with your doctor.

Side Effects of Olanzapine:

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

• Dizziness,
• somnolence,
• dry mouth,
• dyspepsia,
• constipation,
• ALT (SGPT) increased,
• personality disorder,
• increased appetite,
• weight gain,
• akathisia,
• asthenia,
• tremor,
• postural hypotension.
• Rare cases of Priapism and leukopenia.

Warnings and precautions for Olanzapine

Before taking Olanzapine,

• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking olanzapine, call your doctor.
• you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially carbamazepine (Tegretol), heart medications, omeprazole (Prilosec), rifampin (Rifadin), sleeping pills, tranquilizers, and vitamins.
• you should know that this drug may cause a condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). If you have fever, very stiff muscles, change in mental function, sweating, or irregular heartbeat, call your doctor immediately.

What to do if you take Overdose of Olanzapine?

Seek medical attention immediately. For non emergencies, contact your local or regional poison control center.

What to do if you take Missed Dose of Olanzapine?

Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How to Store Olanzapine:

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.