Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular

Generic name: Olanzapine

What is Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular?

Zyprexa is used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and agitation associated with these disorders.

What is the most important information I should know about Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular?

When you first start taking Zyprexa, you can develop very low blood pressure, increased heart rate, dizziness, and, in rare cases, a tendency to faint when first standing up. These problems are more likely to occur if you are dehydrated, have heart problems, or take blood pressure medications. To avoid such problems, your doctor may start with a low dose of Zyprexa and increase your dosage gradually.

Zyprexa and similar medications have been associated with an increased risk of developing high blood sugar, which on rare occasions has led to coma or death. See your doctor right away if you develop signs of high blood sugar, including dry mouth, unusual thirst, increased urination, and tiredness. If you have diabetes or have a high risk of developing it, see your doctor regularly for blood sugar testing.

Zyprexa should not be used to treat elderly patients who have dementia because the drug could increase the risk of stroke. In addition, Zyprexa has also been associated with swallowing and breathing problems in older people and those with Alzheimer's disease.

The safety and effectiveness of Zyprexa have not been studied in children.

Who should not take Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular?

Do not take Zyprexa if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Zyprexa. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver or kidney disease or if you smoke.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Schizophrenia

Adults: The usual starting dose is 5-10 milligrams (mg) once a day. If you start at the lower dose, after a few days the doctor will increase it to 10 mg. After that, your dose will be increased no more than once a week, 5 mg at a time, up to a maximum of 20 mg a day. Once your condition is stabilized, your doctor may continue maintenance therapy at doses of 10-20 mg once a day.

Manic Episodes Associated with Bipolar Disorder

Adults: The usual starting dose is 10-15 mg once a day. If needed, your dose can be increased every 24 hours by 5 mg a day, up to a maximum daily dose of 20 mg. Once your condition is stabilized, your doctor may continue maintenance therapy at doses of 5-20 mg once a day. If Zyprexa is being combined with lithium or valproate, the usual starting dose is 10 mg once a day.

How should I take Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Zyprexa comes in regular tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and as an intramuscular injection. Regular Zyprexa tablets should be taken once a day with or without food.

Zyprexa Zydis is a tablet that will dissolve in your mouth. Immediately after opening the blister packet, use dry hands to remove the tablet and place it in your mouth. The tablet will dissolve quickly in your saliva so it can easily be swallowed with or without liquids.

Zyprexa Intramuscular is an injection that must be given by a doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular?

Avoid alcohol while taking Zyprexa. The combination can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. Zyprexa sometimes causes drowsiness and can impair your judgment, thinking, and movements. Use caution while driving and don't operate dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular?

If Zyprexa is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zyprexa with the following: blood pressure medications, benzodiazepines, carbamazepine, diazepam, drugs that boost the effect of dopamine such as Parkinson's medications, fluvoxamine, levodopa, omeprazole, and rifampin.

What are the possible side effects of Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: agitation, change in personality, constipation, dizziness, dry mouth, increased appetite, indigestion, low blood pressure upon standing, sleepiness, tremor, weakness, weight gain

Can I receive Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Zyprexa should be used during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary. Zyprexa may appear in breast milk; do not breastfeed while taking this medication.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Zyprexa/Zyprexa Zydis/Zyprexa Intramuscular?

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.