Common Use

Olanzapine is an antipsychotic medication belonging to the thienobenzodiazepine class. It is used to treat schizophrenia, affective disorders (including exacerbations, supportive therapy, and long-term preventive therapy), and acute manic episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. It is also effective for mixed episodes in bipolar affective disorder, with or without psychotic symptoms and rapid phase changes.

Dosage and Direction

Take Olanzapine orally with or without food, accompanied by a full glass of water, once daily. For schizophrenia, the recommended dose is 5-10 mg daily, which may be increased by your doctor to 15-20 mg on the 4th or 5th day of treatment. For acute manic episodes, the initial dose is 5-20 mg daily. Elderly patients or those with severe kidney failure or moderate liver failure should start with 5 mg daily.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: kidney or liver failure, benign prostatic hyperplasia, history of convulsions, Parkinson's disease, cerebrovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, eosinophilia, myeloproliferative diseases, paralytic ileus, angle-closure glaucoma, or if you are taking medications that prolong the QT interval. Also, disclose if you have a history of dehydration, hypovolemia, myocardial infarction, heart disease, breast cancer, or if you are pregnant. Safety in adolescents under 18 has not been established. Regular liver tests are recommended. Monitor patients prone to suicidal tendencies. Olanzapine may impair concentration, so exercise caution while driving or operating machinery. Avoid alcohol. Discontinue use if you experience fever, muscle tension, akinesia, tachycardia, or if blood tests show increased creatine and leukocytosis. Hyperglycemia symptoms (drowsiness, increased urination, nausea, thirst, appetite loss, vomiting, dry skin, dry mouth) may occur. Improvement in symptoms may take up to four weeks. Do not stop taking the medication without your doctor's approval.

Contraindications

Olanzapine is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to its components and in breastfeeding women.

Side Effects

Common side effects include constipation, akathisia, drowsiness, dizziness, insomnia, dry mouth, tremor, orthostatic hypotension, and weight gain. Severe reactions may include extrapyramidal effects and tardive dyskinesia. Olanzapine may also increase blood sugar levels.

Drug Interaction

Carbamazepine (Tegretol), omeprazole (Prilosec), rifampin, and smoking can reduce Olanzapine blood levels. Conversely, ciprofloxacin (Cipro), erythromycin, fluvoxamine (Luvox), and diltiazem (Dilacor, Cardizem, Tiazac) may increase its blood levels. Diazepam (Valium) and other benzodiazepines, as well as alcohol, can worsen orthostatic hypotension caused by Olanzapine. It also enhances the effects of anticholinergic drugs and reduces the effects of Levodopa and other dopamine receptor antagonists.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take it if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. Resume your regular dosing schedule the next day.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include agitation, aggression, drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, increased heart rate, trouble breathing, uncontrolled muscle movements, or fainting.

Storage

Store Olanzapine at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F), away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Avoid storing it in bathrooms or places accessible to children.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of the medication and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions. We disclaim responsibility for any errors or omissions in this information and any consequences resulting from its use.