Olanzapine
Information about Olanzapine
Olanzapine uses
Olanzapine is used in the treatment of schizophrenia and mania.
How olanzapine works
Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic. It works by affecting the levels of chemical messengers (dopamine and serotonin) to improve mood, thoughts and behavior.
Common side effects of olanzapine
Dizziness, Sleepiness, Weight gain, Increased prolactin level in blood, Constipation, Joint pain, Increased appetite, Weakness, Extrapyramidal symptoms, Increased liver enzymes, High blood pressure, Cough, ECG changes, Urinary incontinence, Seizure, Altered blood lipid level, Increased glucose level in blood, Anticholinergic effects, Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), Hypersensitivity, Tardive dyskinesia, Menstrual disorder, Edema (swelling), Unusual production of breast milk in women and men, Diarrhea, Abnormal gait, Cerebrovascular accident, Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome, Diabetic ketoacidosis, Intestinal obstruction, Osteoporosis
Available Medicine for Olanzapine
Expert advice for Olanzapine
- Olanzapine works well in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
- It is less likely to cause heart and movement problems as compared to other similar medicines.
- It may take 4 to 6 weeks to see full effects on thoughts and mood. Keep taking it as prescribed.
- Use caution while driving or doing anything that requires concentration as Olanzapine can cause dizziness and sleepiness.
- It may increase your weight, blood sugar and cholesterol. Eat healthy, exercise regularly and monitor your blood levels regularly.
- To lower the chance of feeling dizzy or passing out, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.
- Do not stop taking Olanzapine without talking to your doctor first as it may cause worsening of symptoms.
Frequently asked questions for Olanzapine
Olanzapine
Q. Can Olanzapine be used for anxiety?
The treatment of anxiety with Olanzapine is not an approved indication. Olanzapine has been studied for treatment of anxiety disorders but the results have not been very convincing. However, it can be used along with anxiolytics in anxiety disorders for better results.
Q. Is Olanzapine a sleeping pill?
No, Olanzapine is not a sleeping pill. It belongs to the atypical antipsychotic class of medicines. It is used to treat schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a mental illness that causes disturbed or unusual thinking, loss of interest in life, and strong or inappropriate emotions. Olanzapine also helps with bipolar disorder (manic depressive disorder). It is a disease that causes episodes of depression, mania, and other abnormal moods.
Q. How long does it take for Olanzapine to kick in?
Olanzapine may start showing initial improvement within 1-2 week of starting. However, for full benefits it may take about 4-6 weeks. You should continue taking it and consult your doctor in case you feel that Olanzapine is not helping you.