Zyprexa | olanzapine

Drug Class: Atypical Antipsychotic
Manufacturer: Eli Lilly
Approved: September, 1996

What is Zyprexa and how does it work

Zyprexa is an atypical antipsychotic that theoretically works by reducing the effect of neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin) in the brain by blocking their receptors.

What is Zyprexa used for

• Schizophrenia
• Manic or mixed episodes due to bipolar I disorder
• Combined with Prozac (fluoxetine) to treat resistant depression or depression symptoms associated with bipolar I disorder
• Agitation associated with schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder

How effective is Zyprexa

• Zyprexa plus divalproex was better than divalproex alone in reducing symptoms of mixed bipolar I disorder in a 6 week study.
• In 6 week studies Zyprexa 10 mg daily was better than placebo in reducing symptoms of schizophrenia.
• Intramuscular Zyprexa was better than placebo in reducing agitation associated with bipolar I disorder or schizophrenia.

What are interesting facts about Zyprexa

• Atypical antipsychotic that has been in use for over 10 years
• Available in oral and injectable forms
• Used for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression
• A generic version was approved 10/2011

What is the dosage of Zyprexa and how is it administered

Oral doses range between 2.5 to 15 mg daily. Recommended intramuscular doses are 5 to 10 mg 2 to 4 hours apart (maximum 3 doses).

What are the side effects of Zyprexa

Common: weight gain, dry mouth, headache, insomnia, dizziness, drowsiness, tremor,constipation, abnormal gait

Serious: increased blood glucose, diabetes, low blood pressure, fainting, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, low level of red and white blood cells

Zyprexa drug interactions

Smoking
Carbamazepine
Ciprofloxacin
Rifampin
Diltiazem
Omeprazole
Erythromycin
Diazepam

How to obtain prescription assistance for Zyprexa

For prescription assistance for Zyprexa visit Lilly Patient Assistance Program.

References: Zyprexa FDA Prescribing Information and Medication Guide

The material on this site is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a qualified health care provider.