What is Zyprexa (Olanzapine) used for?

Zyprexa (Olanzapine) is an oral antipsychotic medication used as a long-term treatment for schizophrenia that may also be used for the treatment of manic episodes caused by bipolar disorders. The medication balances levels of naturally occurring chemicals in the brain to relieve symptoms associated with this condition such as agitation, racing thoughts, disorganized thinking, hallucinations, or paranoia. Your doctor may also prescribe its use for the treatment of other unlisted conditions.

How should I use Zyprexa (Olanzapine)?

Zyprexa (Olanzapine) should always be used according to your doctor`s instructions to get the best results from treatment. The normal dosage is one tablet taken each day, but your individual instructions will depend on your current health and the severity of your symptoms. These should be swallowed with a full glass of water and may be taken on an empty stomach, but a meal or snack is recommended before use if you experience nausea. Do not split or crush the tablets before use as this may destroy or alter the effects of their contents. Ask your doctor or pharmacist any questions you have about the medicine to get the most effective results from treatment.

What are the side effects of Zyprexa (Olanzapine)?

The use of Zyprexa (Olanzapine) may cause side effects in some patients such as:

• Headaches
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Upset stomach or constipation
• Unusual weight gain
• Numbness or tingling sensations
• Back pain
• Memory problems
• Swelling or discharge from the breast area
• Disturbed menstrual cycles

Serious side effects that may require emergency medical attention are fever, flu symptoms, stiff muscles, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, tremors, unusual changes in behaviour, swelling of the extremities, severe stomach pain, darkened urine, discoloured stools, or jaundice. These conditions may require lower doses or reduced frequency of administration to prevent further health complications from occurring.

Please Note

Zyprexa (Olanzapine) should not be used by patients who are lactose intolerant, breastfeeding, children, or who have dementia, Parkinson`s disease, closed angle glaucoma, or unstable medical conditions such as a recent heart attack. Also inform your doctor if you are at risk for blood clots or have epilepsy, an enlarged prostate, low blood cell counts, heart failure, risk or stroke, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, elevated liver enzymes, reduced liver function, or decreased kidney function. These conditions may require special adjustments to your regimen to prevent unexpected health problems from occurring.

Strictly use Zyprexa (Olanzapine) as prescribed and follow all instructions provided by your doctor. Safe, suitable, and optimum dosage can vary and is dependent on the patient`s health and medical history, as well as the condition you are treating.

Zyprexa (Olanzapine) may not be safe or suitable for all patients. Always ensure your doctor is informed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, using any other type of medication (including non-prescription medicine, vitamins, and supplements), as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or pre-existing medication conditions.

Seek immediate medical attention or proceed to your nearest accident and emergency department if you suffer a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. Symptoms usually present during a reaction of this nature include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the limbs or face, tight chest, hives, and skin rashes.