Olanzapine

Recently Answered

• QHow does Zyprexa (olanzapine) treat bipolar disorder?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  While it is not completely clear exactly how Zyprexa (olanzapine) works, it is believed that Zyprexa rebalances brain chemicals, thereby treating symptoms of bipolar disorder like extreme emotions.

• QHow do I take Zyprexa (olanzapine)?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  Zyprexa (olanzapine) comes in the form of a disintegrating tablet. With dry hands, remove the foil from the package without popping the pill through the foil. Once the package is open, immediately put the pill in your mouth and wait for it to quickly dissolve. You do not need to take the tablet with water. Zyprexa is typically taken once a day. Zyprexa can be taken either on an empty stomach or with food. If you are taking Zyprexa, talk to your doctor before drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit, as Zyprexa may interact negatively with grapefruit and grapefruit juice.
  
  

• QWhat is the generic version of Zyprexa (olanzapine)?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  Several manufacturers make generic versions of Zyprexa, sold under the name of the active ingredient, olanzapine. Zyprexa and its generics are antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
  
  

• QHow soon after taking Zyprexa will my symptoms improve?

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  A Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center answered

  Your symptoms should begin improving a few weeks after taking Zyprexa. It can sometimes take longer. Even if your symptoms improve, never stop taking the medication without first talking to your doctor. It is likely that your doctor will want to lower the dosage slowly.

• QWhat is Zyprexa (olanzapine)?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  Zyprexa (olanzapine) is a prescription antipsychotic medication that treats schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in teenagers and adults. Zyprexa comes in the form of a tablet that dissolves quickly in your mouth.
  
  
  
  

• QWho should not take Zyprexa (olanzapine)?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  Do not take Zyprexa (olanzapine) if you have seizures, heart problems, breast cancer, suicidal thoughts, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Zyprexa has not been approved for people under the age of 13. Although it is approved for teen use, studies show that many of the medication's possible negative side effects are more likely to occur in adolescents. Elderly adults who have dementia-related psychosis also should not take Zyprexa. Zyprexa can cause complications and death in people with dementia.
  
  

• QWhat happens if I miss a dose of Zyprexa (olanzapine)?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  If you forget to take a dose of Zyprexa (olanzapine), take Zyprexa as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, take only your next dose. Do not take two doses of Zyprexa at once.

• QWhat should I avoid while taking Zyprexa (olanzapine)?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  Do not drink alcohol while taking Zyprexa (olanzapine). Zyprexa may cause drowsiness, and alcohol can increase this side effect. Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or engage in potentially risky behavior until you know how Zyprexa affects you, as Zyprexa can impair cognitive or motor skills.

• QWhat are possible side effects of Zyprexa (olanzapine)?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  Side effects of Zyprexa (olanzapine) include dry mouth, dizziness, weight gain, and increased cholesterol levels. Zyprexa may cause hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, in some people, including those with diabetes. Some people continue to suffer from hyperglycemia even after they stop taking Zyprexa. Other side effects of Zyprexa include lethargy, increased hunger, restlessness, shakes or tremors in the body, fewer bowel movements or hard excrement, headaches, abdominal pain, aches and pain in the arms or legs, and overall tiredness. People who take Zyprexa commonly gain weight, so you should have regular check-ups to monitor your weight while taking this medication.
  Although Zyprexa is approved for teen use, many of Zyprexa's side effects, including weight gain, drowsiness, and increased cholesterol, are more likely to occur in teenagers.
  Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or engage in potentially dangerous activities until you know how Zyprexa affects you, as Zyprexa can impair cognitive or motor skills.
  
  

• QHow does Zyprexa (olanzapine) treat schizophrenia?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  While it is not completely clear exactly how Zyprexa (olanzapine) works, it is believed that Zyprexa rebalances brain chemicals, thereby treating symptoms of schizophrenia like extreme emotions, lackluster emotions, disinterest in life, and disturbed thoughts.