Olanzapine
(Zyprexa, United States and Canada)

More drugs used for Schizophrenia.

Use:

Olanzapine or Zyprexa is an antipsychotic drug for the schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders. It is an atypical antipsychotic similar to clozapine or resperidone.

How It Works:

Olanzapine or Zyprexa blocks specific dopamine and serotonin receptors.

Side Effects:

Olanzapine or Zyprexa does not - so far - have the hematologic side effect that clozapine does. Although movement disorders are a side effects, they are fewer than the other agents.
Olanzapine or Zyprexa can cause dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, dry mouth, and weight gain.

Cautions for People:

People start taking Olanzapine or Zyprexa in low doses, and increasing them until they reach a therapeutic dose. Unfortunately this can take some time, and people may not immediately see benefits from Olanzapine or Zyprexa.

Drug Interactions:

Alcohol is able to increase Olanzapine or Zyprexa's dizziness. Any drug that causes drowsiness will increase drowsiness side effects.

Further Reading:

N Eng J Med 1996;334:34
Pharmacotherapy 1996;16(1,Pt2):1S
FDC Reports 1996;58(30):5,12
J Clin Psychopharmacol 1995;15(1Suppl1):245

Added to Virtual Drugstore November 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.

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