How to use Olanzapine? (Zyprexa, zydis, zypadhera) - Doctor Explains

In this video we will cover everything you need to know about Olanzapine, also known as Zyprexa. This video is part of a video series on mental health problems. So for more mental health related videos check out this playlist:
   • Mental Health Problems and Solutions  

Generic name: Olanzapine.
Brand names: Zyprexa, zydis and zypadhera.
Available as a tablet and injection.

How to use it?
Swallow the tablet completely with half a glass of water. Do not break them and don’t chew on them.
When using injections: These will be administered by your doctor or nurse into your buttock muscle.

Duration of treatment:
The duration of treatment depends on the indication of use and the severity of your symptoms. If your symptoms improve with the use of Olanzapine you usually have to keep using it for 12-24 more months. And sometimes multiple years.

When to use it?
Olanzapine is part of a group of drugs called antipsychotics. It can be used to treat several mental health conditions:
Schizophrenia.
Manic episodes in bipolar disorder.

What is the correct dosage?
Unfortunately I can’t provide you with guidelines for the correct dosages, as these differ a lot depending on the specific indication, the side effects you experience and the severity of your complaints.
Usually your doctor starts with a low dose and quickly builds it up over a few days. Afterwards your maintenance dose will be adapted throughout your treatment based on the blood levels of Olanzapine you will be having.
Therefore always use the prescribed dose and frequency your doctor gave you.

What are the side-effects?
Very common (10+%): sleepiness, low blood pressure, weight gain and sexual dysfunction (erectile dysfunction, decreased libido).
Common (1-10%): increased appetite, changes in your blood values, constipation, dry mouth, dizziness, tiredness, fever, joint pain, rash and visual hallucinations.
Uncommon (0.1-1%): allergic reaction, stuttering and thrombosis.

Safety:
You should be careful to combine Olanzapine with alcohol. As this might increase the dazing effect of Olanzapine.
In addition it is usually safe to drive while using this drug, however it can cause you to become drowsy, sleepy and/or dizzy. If you experiencing any of these side effects then please do not drive.
Lastly, Olanzapine can have interactions with several drugs. Therefore always discuss this with your treating physician.

Pregnancy and Lactation:
Olanzapine can often be used safely in both cases, however always discuss this with your doctor, as there are some exceptions.

Disclaimer: this video and the comments are meant purely informational! This is not medical advice! If you are looking for medical advice always contact your own doctor. -

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Literature:
1: Farmacotherapeutisch Kompas. (2020). Olanzapine
2: Apotheek.nl (2020). Olanzapine.

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