Zyprexa (olanzapine) is an atypical antipsychotic medication that can be prescribed for the management of symptoms of psychotic disorders as well as for the short-term treatment of acute manic episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. Zyprexa can also be used for the prevention of recurrences in patients with bipolar I disorder whose prior manic episodes have responded to olanzapine treatment. A combination of olanzapine with either lithium or valproate can be used for the short-term treatment of acute manic episodes associated with bipolar I disorder.
The main effect that olanzapine has is to block some dopamine receptors in the brain, correcting the overactivity of that neurotransmitter. Olanzapine also has effects on other neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin (5-HT), which may also contribute to its beneficial effects in treating psychotic conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and manic depression in adults and children over the age of 12.
Dosage
The dosage and regime will be determined only by the doctor. It may take some time before the correct dose is found. Do not chew, crush, or split the tablets. Swallow the tablets with some water.
If an overdose has been taken accidentally or if a child has accidentally swallowed the medicine, call 911 or go immediately to a hospital emergency room and take the medicine package with you.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication. Please take time to read the manufacturer’s Product Insert that comes with the medication. Not all side effects are listed here.
There are some common side effects that may persist until the body adjusts to this medication. These include a lack of energy, dry mouth, constipation, indigestion, drowsiness, dizziness, sleep disorders or Parkinsonism. If these worsen or do not clear up, talk to a doctor or pharmacist.
Zyprexa is prescribed to treat the symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hearing voices, seeing things that do not exist, believing in things that are not true, suspicion and disconnection.
It is also prescribed to treat the symptoms of bipolar I disorder, which include alternating periods of depression and uplifted mood, nervousness, increased activity and restlessness, racing thoughts, rapid speech, changes in
appetite, impulsive behavior, and decreased need for sleep.
Zyprexa treats the symptoms of treatment-resistant depression, which include decreased mood, decreased interest,
increased guilty feelings, decreased energy, decreased concentration, changes in appetite and suicidal thoughts or behavior.
Olanzapine is increasingly used off-label for the treatment of multiple symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and anorexia in cancer patients and others with serious illnesses.