Zyprexa
Generic Name: Olanzapine
What is Zyprexa?
Zyprexa is used for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and agitation associated with these disorders. Zyprexa is also used for the management of treatment-resistant depression and depression associated with bipolar disorder.What is the most important information I should know about Zyprexa?
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 may cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS, a life-threatening brain disorder marked by muscle stiffness or rigidity, fast heartbeat or irregular pulse, increased sweating, high fever, and blood pressure irregularities). Call your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
Increases in cholesterol have been reported with the use of Zyprexa. Your doctor may monitor your cholesterol levels.
Weight gain is a side effect of Zyprexa. Your doctor should monitor your weight regularly.
Zyprexa may affect the production of disease-fighting white blood cells. Call your doctor right away if you have any signs of a fever or infection.
Zyprexa may cause tardive dyskinesia (a movement disorder characterized by slow or jerky facial or body movements). Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any involuntary muscle movements.
In rare instances, Zyprexa has been shown to induce seizures.
Zyprexa may increase the amount of a certain hormone (prolactin) in your blood. Symptoms may include enlarged breasts, missed menstrual period, decreased sexual ability, or nipple discharge. Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms.
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.
Who should not take Zyprexa?
Do not take Zyprexa if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.Zyprexa should not be used in elderly patients who have dementia.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zyprexa?
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, alcohol and tobacco use, high or low blood pressure, history of a heart attack or stroke, high cholesterol, seizures, diabetes or elevated blood sugar, Alzheimer's disease or dementia, history of suicidal thoughts, a genetic disorder called phenylketonuria (an inability to process phenylalanine, a protein in your body), history of obesity, or a low white blood cell count. In addition, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.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. Your doctor will increase your dose as needed to achieve and maintain an optimal effect.
Adolescents 13-17 years: The usual starting dose is 2.5-5 mg once a day. Your doctor will increase your child's dose as needed to achieve and maintain an optimal effect.
Bipolar Disorder (Manic)
Adults: The usual starting dose is 10-15 mg once a day. Your doctor will increase your dose as needed to achieve and maintain an optimal effect. Once your condition is stabilized, your doctor may continue maintenance therapy at doses of 5-20 mg once a day.
Adolescents 13-17 years: The usual starting dose is 2.5-5 mg once a day. Your doctor will increase your child's dose as needed to achieve and maintain an optimal effect.
Agitation Associated with Schizophrenia and Bipolar Mania
Adults: The recommended dose is 10 mg given by injection into the muscle. However, your doctor may adjust your dose based on your condition.
Depression
Adults: The recommended starting dose is 5 mg given in combination with 20 mg of fluoxetine. If needed, doses may be increased, as determined by your doctor.
How should I take Zyprexa?
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. Do not chew or divide the tablets.
Zyprexa Intramuscular is an injection that must be given by a doctor.
What should I avoid while taking Zyprexa?
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 do not operate dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you. When sitting or lying down, stand up slowly to avoid any feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zyprexa?
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: alcohol, blood pressure medications, carbamazepine, diazepam, Parkinson's medications, fluvoxamine, levodopa, lorazepam, omeprazole, and rifampin.What are the possible side effects of Zyprexa?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell 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: cerebrovascular events (such as stroke), seizures, involuntary movements, weight gain, increased appetite, high blood sugar and diabetes, low white blood cell count, dizziness upon standing, suicidal thoughts, impaired judgment, infections, upset stomach
Can I receive Zyprexa 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?
If you miss a dose of Zyprexa, 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 dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Zyprexa?
Store at room temperature.
