Information about Olanzapine

Generic Name : Olanzapine
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Olanzapine are provided here.

Pronunciation : oh lan' za peen

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Olanzapine, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y49.5 Therapeutic Classification : Psychotherapeutics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Olanzapine

India :

More info >>>

International :

Zyprexa

Why is Olanzapine Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an atypical antipsychotic, prescribed for schizophrenia. It changes the activity of certain natural substances in the brain.

When should Olanzapine not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Olanzapine?

PO- Adult – The recommended initial dose is 5 to 10 mg once a day. Maintenance: 10 mg/day to 20 mg/day.
Adolescents- The recommended starting dose is 2.5 or 5 mg/day.

How should Olanzapine be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Olanzapine?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of liver, stomach problems, enlarged prostate, increased eye pressure, neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), lung disease, suicidal thoughts, heart attack, irregular heartbeat, seizures, obesity, breast cancer, difficulty in swallowing, high/low blood pressure, sugar, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause dizziness or drowsiness, do not drive a car or operate machinery and get up slowly from bed while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• Drink adequate fluids to avoid becoming over heated or dehydration; otherwise it may cause heat stroke.

• It may raise blood sugar with increased thirsty, drowsiness or confusion; if it so consult with your doctor.

♦Patient may develop Post-injection Delirium Sedation Syndrome (PDSS) within 3 hours after administration of this medication.

What are the side effects of Olanzapine?

Body as a Whole - Weakness, back pain, accidental injury and chest pain.
Central Nervous System - Drowsiness, tremor, depression, dizziness, speech disorder, memory loss, tingling, confusion, emotion and incoordination.
Heart - High blood pressure and fast heart rate.
Gastrointestinal - Dry mouth, increased appetite/thirst, constipation and increased salivation.
Metabolic - Weight gain and swelling in the extremities.
Respiratory - Difficulty in breathing and lung inflammation.
Skin - Increased sweating, pimples and dry skin.
Eye - Abnormal vision.
Genitourinary - Painful menstrual period and vaginal infection.