Olanzapine

Information About Olanzapine

Uses of Olanzapine

Olanzapine is commonly used to rapidly control the agitated behaviour in patient with mania or schizophrenia, mania with background of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

How Olanzapine Works

Olanzapine works by affecting the serotonin 5-HT2A/2C, dopamine D1-4, histamine H1 and adrenergic alpha�1 receptors.

Side Effects of Olanzapine

Weight gain, Orthostatic hypotension, Agranulocytosis, Dizziness, Fatigue, Dry mouth, Constipation, Akathisia, Parkinsonism, Rash, Joint pain, Erectile dysfunction in males, Decreased libido in males and females, Transient, asymptomatic elevations of hepatic aminotransferases

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Olanzapine Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Olanzapine. Taking Olanzapine with alcohol may cause CNS depression.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Olanzapine may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the fetus (teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies in women or studies in women and animals are not available. Drugs should only be given if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Lactation Not Advisable

Olanzapine is unsafe to use during lactation as is excreted into human breast milk.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Olanzapine may cause side effects such as dizziness or sleepiness, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney Use With Care

Olanzapine should be started at low dose initially and increase with caution in patients with kidney impairment. Please consult your doctor.

Liver Use With Care

Initially, Olanzapine should be started at low dose and increase with caution in patients with liver impairment. Please consult your doctor.