Zyprexa

Drug Name

Zyprexa (Olanzapine)

Drug Uses

Zyprexa is used to treat the symptoms of psychotic conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression).

How to use

Use Zyprexa as directed by your doctor.

•     Take Zyprexa by mouth with or without food.
•     Drinking extra fluids while you are taking Zyprexa is recommended. Check with your doctor for instructions.
•     Continue to take Zyprexa even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Zyprexa.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Zyprexa is an antipsychotic medication. It works by changing the actions of chemicals in the brain.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Zyprexa, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Overdose

If you think you have used too much of this medicine seek emergency medical attention right away. The symptoms of overdose usually include chest pain, nausea, irregular heartbeat, and feeling light-headed or fainting.

Storage

Store Zyprexa at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Zyprexa out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Zyprexa if:

•     you are allergic to any ingredient in Zyprexa.

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Some medical conditions may interact with Zyprexa. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

•     if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding;
•     if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement;
•     if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances;
•     if you have a history of seizures, heart problems (eg, heart failure; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat), abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG), heart attack, stroke, blood vessel problems, high blood cholesterol levels, or high or low blood pressure;
•     if you have a history of liver problems, stomach or bowel problems (eg, decreased muscle movement), enlarged prostate, narrow-angle glaucoma, neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), aspiration pneumonia, or suicidal thoughts or attempts;
•     if you have Alzheimer disease, dementia, or trouble swallowing;
•     if you have diabetes or are very overweight, or if a family member has had diabetes;
•     if you have had high blood prolactin levels or a history of certain types of cancer (eg, breast, pancreas, pituitary), or if you are at risk for breast cancer;
•     if you are dehydrated, drink alcohol, or smoke, or you will be exposed to high temperatures.

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Zyprexa. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

•     Alpha blockers (eg, doxazosin), diazepam, or medicine for high blood pressure because the risk of low blood pressure and fainting may be increased;
•     Anticholinergics (eg, scopolamine), fluvoxamine, or lorazepam because they may increase the risk of Zyprexa 's side effects;
•     Carbamazepine, HIV protease inhibitors (eg, ritonavir), omeprazole, or rifampin because they may decrease Zyprexa 's effectiveness;
•     Dopamine receptor agonists (eg, pramipexole) or levodopa because their effectiveness may be decreased by Zyprexa.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

•     back or joint pain; constipation; cough; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; increased appetite; indigestion; lightheadedness; numbness or tingling of the skin; restlessness; sore throat; weakness; weight gain.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); abnormal thoughts; chest pain; confusion; decreased urination; fainting; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; fever; increased saliva production or drooling; increased sweating; memory loss; menstrual changes; muscle pain, weakness, or stiffness; new or worsening mental or mood changes (eg, depression, hallucinations); seizures; severe or prolonged dizziness or headache; shortness of breath; swelling of the hands, legs, or feet; symptoms of high blood sugar (eg, increased thirst, hunger, urination; unusual weakness); tremor; trouble concentrating, speaking, or swallowing; trouble sitting still; trouble walking or standing; uncontrolled muscle movements (eg, arm or leg movements, twitching of the face or tongue, jerking or twisting); unusual bruising; vision changes; yellowing of the eyes or skin.

More Information

Zyprexa is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.