Olanzapine or Zyprexa is an antipsychotic drug for the schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders. It is an atypical antipsychotic similar to clozapine or resperidone.
Olanzapine or Zyprexa blocks specific dopamine and serotonin receptors.
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.
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.
Alcohol is able to increase Olanzapine or Zyprexa's dizziness. Any drug that causes drowsiness will increase drowsiness side effects.
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The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.