Zyprexa: Drug Information

Generic Name: Olanzapine

Drug Class: Antipsychotic

Zyprexa is an antipsychotic drug that is used in the treatment of acute schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and mania. It helps eliminate various psychotic conditions such as hallucinations, delusions, agitation and feelings of nervousness.

Indications and dosage:

It is essential for you to take the medication as prescribed by your physician in order to avoid any side effects. Zyprexa is available in tablet form and must not be crushed or broken but swallowed as a whole. You must also not stop taking the medication abruptly without the consent of your doctor as it may worsen some of the symptoms of the disorder you are being treated for. The drug can be ingested with or without food.

Warning and Precautions:

Zyprexa should not be administered to patients who show hypersensitivity to the medicine.

This medicine should not be given to patients with dementia related psychosis, particularly the elderly as it may result in death

Caution is advised when administering Zyprexa to patients with a history of myocardial infraction, ischemia, heart failure, conduction abnormalities, cerebrovasular disease, seizure, hepatic impairment, impaired motor activity.

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer or pituitary tumors you must tell your doctor before taking this medicine.

Safety of Olanzapine therapy has not yet been established in pregnancy and lactation. Thus, you need to notify your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or lactating before taking this medicine.

Alcohol should not be consumed when on Zyprexa.

Olanzapine can impair judgment, thinking and motor skills. Thus, it is essential for you to refrain from operating machinery or driving when on the medication.

Zyprexa has the potential to cause dehydration. Thus, patients should abstain from working outdoors and keep themselves away from conditions of excessive heat.

Side Effects of Zyprexa:

Some of the most common side effects of the medication include constipation, dizziness, insomnia, postural hypotension, akathisia, tremor, weight changes, alterations in appetite, dry mouth and personality disorders.

Overdose:

Symptoms of Olanzapine overdose include dysarthria, tachycardia, extrapyramidal symptoms, sedation, coma, hypertension and reduced consciousness.In case of an overdose of the medication, you must report to your doctor at the earliest or contact your local poison control center.