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Zyprexa 
OlanzapineDescription
Generic Name: olanzapine
Drug Class: atypical antipsychotic
Zyprexa Uses
Zyprexa is an oral prescription drug used to treat schizophrenia. It is also prescribed as an acute treatment or adjunct to lithium or valproate for manic or mixed episodes of bipolar 1 disorder. It lessens hallucinations while helping one to think more clearly and positively.
Zyprexa Dosage Forms
This is available in Zyprexa 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg,10 mg, 15 mg, and 20 mg tablets.
Zyprexa Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism of this antipsychotic is still unknown. However, it is thought to work by combining the partial agonist activity at dopamine and 5-HT1A receptors and the antagonist activity at the 5-HT2A receptors. In the brain, it restores a balance of certain neurotransmitters.
How to Take Zyprexa
Before you start taking Zyprexa, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. Unless you fully understand how any medication should be used, you should not take it and should consult with your doctor first.
This tablet is only meant to be taken by mouth with or without a meal and is prescribed once a day. Swallow the oral tablet and drink fluids right after. Ask for supervision from a health care professional if you need to cut or crush this drug.
Make a dosing schedule. Do not increase or decrease your Zyprexa dosage. In addition, you shouldn’t take this oral medication more frequently than recommended. To minimize adverse effects, your physician may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it.
Zyprexa Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Dizziness
-Lightheadedness
-Drowsiness
-Dry mouth
-Increased appetite
-Weight gain
-Stomach upset
-Constipation
Severe Side Effects:
-Mental or mood changes
-Tremors
-Difficulty swallowing
-Slow heartbeat
-Severe abdominal pain
-Trouble urinating
-Dyspnea
-High blood sugar
-Increased blood cholesterol levels
-Increased prolactin
-Tardive dyskinesia
-Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Zyprexa.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue Zyprexa and call your doctor or any health care professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to olanzapine or any inactive ingredients it may contain. Always be on the lookout for serious allergy symptoms, such as swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, and hives/itchiness and trouble breathing.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of dysphagia, seizures, difficulty urinating, diabetes, liver problems, gastrointestinal problems, heart disease, high cholesterol levels, glaucoma, and sleep apnea. Also, in order to avoid possible drug interactions, all prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking should be discussed.
Dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, and blurred vision are among the side effects of this antipsychotic. Keeping alert and clear vision is essential when performing tasks requiring alertness. Further, you should avoid drinking alcohol while on this treatment because alcohol can worsen certain adverse effects.
Olanzapine can decrease sweating which could increase the risk of heatstroke. Stay in a cool place, wear light clothes, and stay hydrated if the weather is humid/hot.
During pregnancy, pregnant women should avoid this oral drug as it can harm their unborn children. This drug is known to pass into breast milk so for breastfeeding moms, make sure to discuss all the risks with your physician prior to taking the medication.
How much does Zyprexa cost in Canada?
This medication can be quite expensive. You can get the best deals on your prescription if you order from PharmaPassport. Check the top of this page for our prices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Zyprexa used for?
Zyprexa (olanzapine) is being used to treat schizophrenia and its side effects. It is also being given to patients who are diagnosed with bipolar 1 disorder.
What is Zyprexa drug class?
This oral medication is classified as an atypical antipsychotic. This type of medication is also known as second-generation antipsychotics or serotonin-dopamine antagonists.
How long does Zyprexa take to kick in?
It may take a few days for this prescription drug to kick in. You may feel the full effects of this drug after four to six weeks of taking this drug.
Can I take Zyprexa for anxiety?
This drug is not specifically indicated for anxiety. However, some physicians prescribe this drug to help manage generalized anxiety disorder or GAD.
What are the Zyprexa withdrawal symptoms?
Withdrawal happens when you discontinue your drug abruptly. Some symptoms include agitation, restlessness, sweating, anxiety, trouble sleeping, nausea, joint pain, and other psychotic symptoms.
Is Zyprexa available over the counter?
This product is a prescription drug. When purchasing this product from any pharmacy, you must present a valid prescription.