Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that often manifests in disabling symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. Patients may also experience difficulty in understanding information and making decisions. Symptoms usually start in late teens to young adulthood.

Bipolar Disorder

People with bipolar disorder experience unusual shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. Moods range from extremely elevated to depressive. Also known as manic-depressive illness, this condition often involves changes in sleep pattern and unusual behavior.

There are four basic types of bipolar disorder: bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, cyclothymia, and unspecified bipolar disorder.

Depression

Depression is a mood disorder that manifests in feelings of tiredness, loss of interest, sleep disturbances, and anxiety. People usually have trouble carrying out everyday activities and may feel like life is not worth living. Depression may require long-term treatment involving medications and psychotherapy.

Zyprexa Active Ingredient

Generic Zyprexa Alternative: Olanzapine

Zyprexa contains the active ingredient olanzapine, which belongs to a class of drugs called atypical antipsychotics. These newer medications are less likely to produce some of the negative side effects associated with the first generation of antipsychotics, also known as typical antipsychotics.

Zyprexa General Information

What is Zyprexa and What Is It Used For?

Zyprexa is prescribed to patients who suffer from schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It contains the active ingredient olanzapine which helps decrease hallucinations. Many patients discover they are able to think more clearly, feel calmer, and have a more positive outlook on life.

Zyprexa may also be used in combination with other medication in patients with depression.

Warnings

Zyprexa is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems.

Older adults with dementia who take this drug have a slightly higher risk of serious side effects, such as stroke, heart failure, irregular heartbeat, and pneumonia.

Those using Zyprexa in combination treatment for depression should understand how to safely use all prescribed medications.

The information on this page is not a replacement for a consultation with a physician, qualified to treat this condition and prescribe medication. The information is supplied by a third party, independent from this website and only serves to raise awareness about this condition and point out basic information regarding treatment.

The website cannot take responsibility for the reliability or medical efficacy of the information provided. As mentioned above, patients should seek medical attention to ensure effective and safe treatment.

Not all products are shipped by our contracted Canadian pharmacy. The source country, shipping country, or drug manufacturer may vary depending on availability.

The website also sources from dispensaries around the world. Products can be sourced from a number of countries. Patients should note that different items within an order can be shipped from different jurisdictions, depending on availability and cost at the time an order was placed.

Usage and Application

Zyprexa should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor. The dosage depends on the patient’s condition, age, and response to treatment.

Most patients are prescribed one daily oral dose. To reduce the risk of side effects, some patients are asked to start the medication at a lower dose, increasing it gradually. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions carefully.

It is necessary to use Zyprexa regularly in order to experience its full benefit. To prevent forgetting, patients are advised to take this medication at the same time each day. Patients should continue taking Zyprexa even if they feel well. Stopping this medication must happen only under the guidance of the treating physician.

Patients should notify their doctor in the event their condition worsens.

Considerations Before Taking Zyprexa

Before starting treatment patients need to discuss the possibility of allergic reactions to Zyprexa.

It is vital to discuss the patient’s medical history, especially heart disease, liver disease, low white blood cell count, dementia, or seizures. Patients should also report whether they smoke or have conditions like sleep apnea, difficulty swallowing, urination issues, and stomach problems like an intestinal blockage or paralytic ileus.

Eye problems like narrow-angle glaucoma should also be reported, as well as a family or personal history of diabetes or high cholesterol.

Zyprexa may cause dizziness or drowsiness. While taking this medication, patients should not drive, use machinery, or perform other tasks requiring alertness until the effects of the medication are known. Avoid alcoholic beverages and discuss marijuana use with your doctor.

Patients preparing for surgery or certain dental procedures should inform their doctor or dentist about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products they are taking.

Some patients taking this medication may find that they sweat less. This increases the likelihood of heat stroke. On hot days, patients should drink plenty of fluids and avoid exercising or performing any other activities that may cause them to overheat. Using hot tubs should be avoided.

In the event of overheating, patients should take immediate steps to cool down and rest. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of serious overheating – mood changes, headache, or dizziness – persist.

Teenagers may be more sensitive to certain negative side effects of Zyprexa, especially weight gain. They are also more at risk of developing increased cholesterol, triglycerides, and prolactin levels.

Older adults taking Zyprexa are likely to be more sensitive to certain negative side effects, especially constipation, trouble urinating, and confusion. There is also an elevated risk of experiencing drowsiness, dizziness, and lightheadedness, which increases the risk of falling.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant – or planning to become pregnant – should discuss the safe use of Zyprexa with their doctors. Untreated problems such as schizophrenia can be a serious condition, and patients should not stop the medication unless directed by their doctor.

In rare cases, babies born to mothers using this medication in the last trimester may develop symptoms such as muscle stiffness, shakiness, drowsiness, constant crying, feeding problems, or breathing difficulties. Parents should contact a physician right away if they notice such symptoms in their newborn.

Zyprexa passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on nursing infants. Mothers should consult their doctor before they begin breastfeeding.

Delayed and Omitted Doses

Patients who miss a dose of Zyprexa should take it as soon as they remember. If this happens near the time for the next dose, patients should skip the missed dose and proceed as usual. Patients should not double up on the dose in order to catch up.

Other Medications and Zyprexa

Drug interactions may change the way Zyprexa works and may increase the risk of side effects. Before starting treatment, patients need to discuss all medications and supplements they are taking with their doctor.

Patients should not change their dose or stop taking this medication unless their physician advises them to do so.

Some medications like the heartburn drug Reglan may negatively interact with Zyprexa.

Patients who smoke or take the anticonvulsant carbamazepine should inform their doctor as both affect the metabolism of Zyprexa and reduce concentrations of Zyprexa in the body.

Patients should also inform their doctor if they use other products which cause drowsiness, like opioid pain and cough relievers like codeine or hydrocodone. Alcohol or marijuana have the same effect, as do drugs for sleep and anxiety like alprazolam, lorazepam, and zolpidem.

Muscle relaxants like carisoprodol and cyclobenzaprine – as well as antihistamines like Zyrtec and Benadryl – may also cause drowsiness. Patients should check the labels of all allergy and cough-and-cold products for ingredients that may cause drowsiness, and discuss the safe use of such products with their pharmacist.

Adverse Reactions

Most patients are able to use Zyprexa safely without serious side effects.

Some patients may experience drowsiness, dizziness, and lightheadedness. This increases the risk of falling, so patients should get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. Dry mouth, upset stomach, constipation, increased appetite, and weight gain are additional common side effects.

It is important to inform the treating physician of serious side effects like difficulty swallowing or urinating, severe stomach pain, tremors, slow heartbeat, and fainting. Sleep apnea, numbness of the arms or legs, and yellowing skin or eyes should be reported immediately. Patients should also monitor for mental changes, such as confusion and restlessness.

In rare cases, Zyprexa may increase blood sugar levels, a concern for diabetic patients. Diabetic patients should check blood sugar regularly and may need to adjust their medication, exercise program, and diet. All patients should monitor for symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst and urination.

Some patients may experience significant weight gain and a rise in blood cholesterol and/or triglycerides. The risk is especially pronounced in teenagers. Coupled with pre-existing diabetes, this may increase the risk of heart disease.

In some patients, there is a rare possibility of developing tardive dyskinesia, which causes involuntary, repetitive body movements. In some cases, the condition may be permanent. Patients should notify their doctor in the event they notice any unusual movements, especially in the face, mouth, tongue, arms, or legs.

This medicine may increase levels of the hormone prolactin produced by the body. In women, this can lead to unwanted production of breast milk, irregular periods, or difficulty conceiving. Men may experience decreased sexual ability, enlarged breasts, or an inability to produce sperm. Patients should report these symptoms immediately to their doctor.

Patients who experience a seizure should seek immediate medical assistance.

Zyprexa may rarely cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a very serious and possibly life-threatening condition. Patients should seek immediate medical help if they experience sweating, fever, muscle stiffness, severe tiredness, and severe confusion. Additional NMS symptoms include irregular heartbeat, dark urine, and changes in the amount of urine.

Serious allergic reactions to Zyprexa are rare, yet patients should be aware of symptoms including rash, itching and swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.

How to Store Zyprexa

Zyprexa should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep away from children and pets.

Unwanted medication should be disposed of properly and should not be poured into drains or flushed down the toilet. Patients should consult a pharmacist or their local waste disposal company to find out more about safe disposal methods.

Zyprexa Drug Information

Zyprexa Overview

Olanzapine is used to treat certain mental/mood conditions (such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder). It may also be used in combination with other medication to treat depression. Zyprexa can help to decrease hallucinations and help you to think more clearly and positively about yourself, feel less agitated, and take a more active part in everyday life. Olanzapine belongs to a class of drugs called atypical antipsychotics. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain. Talk to the doctor about the risks and benefits of treatment (especially when used by teenagers). See also Precautions section.
Zyprexa Warnings

There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (such as stroke, heart failure, fast/irregular heartbeat, pneumonia) when Zyprexa is used by older adults with dementia. Zyprexa is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems. Discuss the risks and benefits of Zyprexa, as well as other effective and possibly safer treatments for dementia-related behavior problems, with the doctor. If you are using olanzapine in combination with other medication to treat depression, also carefully read the drug information for the other medication.
How to Use Zyprexa

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking olanzapine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take Zyprexa by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. The Dosage of Zyprexa is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start Zyprexa at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Take Zyprexa regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. It is important to continue taking Zyprexa as prescribed even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Zyprexa without consulting your doctor. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Zyprexa Precautions

Before taking olanzapine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using Zyprexa, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history,liver problems, seizures, difficulty swallowing, low white blood cell count, dementia, difficulty urinating (for example, due to enlarged prostate), glaucoma (narrow angle), stomach/intestinal disease (such as blockage, paralytic ileus), smoking, personal or family history of diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol/triglyceride levels, breathing trouble during sleep (sleep apnea). Zyprexa may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis). Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Zyprexa may make you sweat less, making you more likely to get heat stroke. Avoid doing things that may cause you to overheat, such as hard work or exercise in hot weather, or using hot tubs. When the weather is hot, drink a lot of fluids and dress lightly. If you overheat, quickly look for a place to cool down and rest. Get medical help right away if you have a fever that does not go away, mental/mood changes, headache, or dizziness. Teenagers may be more sensitive to the side effects of Zyprexa, especially weight gain, and also increased amounts of cholesterol, triglycerides, and prolactin. See also Side Effects section for more details. Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of Zyprexa, especially drowsiness, constipation, trouble urinating, confusion, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, and lightheadedness can increase the risk of falling. During pregnancy, Zyprexa should be used only when clearly needed. Babies born to mothers who have used Zyprexa during the last 3 months of pregnancy may rarely develop symptoms including muscle stiffness or shakiness, drowsiness, feeding/breathing difficulties, or constant crying. If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn especially during their first month, tell the doctor right away. Since untreated mental/mood problems (such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression) can be a serious condition, do not stop taking Zyprexa unless directed by your doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, immediately discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Zyprexa during pregnancy. Zyprexa passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Tell the doctor right away if your baby develops symptoms such as muscle stiffness or shakiness, unusual sleepiness, or difficulty feeding. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Zyprexa Misdose

If you miss a dose of Zyprexa, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Zyprexa Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.metoclopramide. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine). Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.
Zyprexa Side Effects

Drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, stomach upset, dry mouth, constipation, increased appetite, or weight gain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Dizziness and lightheadedness can increase the risk of falling. Get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. Remember that your doctor has prescribed Zyprexa because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using Zyprexa do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects,difficulty swallowing, shaking (tremor), slow heartbeat, fainting, mental/mood changes (such as confusion, restlessness), numbness/tingling of arms/legs, yellowing eyes/skin, severe stomach/abdominal pain, trouble urinating, interrupted breathing during sleep. Zyprexa may rarely make your blood sugar rise, which can cause or worsen diabetes. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst/urination. If you already have diabetes, check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet. Zyprexa may also cause significant weight gain and a rise in your blood cholesterol (or triglyceride) levels, especially in teenagers. These effects, along with diabetes, may increase your risk for developing heart disease. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor. (See also Notes section.) Olanzapine may rarely cause a condition known as tardive dyskinesia. In some cases, this condition may be permanent. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any unusual/uncontrolled movements (especially of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, arms or legs). Zyprexa may increase a certain natural substance (prolactin) made by your body. For females, this increase in prolactin may result in unwanted breast milk, missed/stopped periods, or difficulty becoming pregnant. For males, it may result in decreased sexual ability, inability to produce sperm, or enlarged breasts. If you develop any of these symptoms, tell your doctor right away. Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects,seizures. Zyprexa may rarely cause a very serious condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS).fever, muscle stiffness/pain/tenderness/weakness, severe tiredness, severe confusion, sweating, fast/irregular heartbeat, dark urine, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine). A very serious allergic reaction to Zyprexa is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction,fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
List of Zyprexa side effects
Zyprexa Storage

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: All medical content is supplied by a third party company who is independent from this web site. As such, this web site can not guarantee the reliability, accuracy, and /or medical efficacy of the information provided. In all circumstances, you should seek the advice of a health professional pertaining to drug, treatment and/or medical condition advice. Note that not all products are shipped by our contracted Canadian pharmacy. This website contracts with dispensaries around the world that ship products directly to our customers. Some of the jurisdiction include but are not limited to United Kingdom, Europe, Turkey, India, Canada, Vanuatu, Mauritius, and USA. The items within your order may be shipped from any one of these jurisdiction depending on the availability and cost of the products at the time you place your order. The products are sourced from these countries as well as others. Please note that the product appearance may vary from actual product received depending on availability.

Zyprexa

What is a generic medication?

Related Products

Zyprexa Helps Treat the Following Conditions:

Schizophrenia

Bipolar Disorder

Depression

Zyprexa Active Ingredient

Generic Zyprexa Alternative: Olanzapine

Zyprexa General Information

What is Zyprexa and What Is It Used For?

Warnings

Usage and Application

Considerations Before Taking Zyprexa

Delayed and Omitted Doses

Other Medications and Zyprexa

Adverse Reactions

How to Store Zyprexa

Zyprexa Drug Information

Zyprexa Overview

Zyprexa Warnings

How to Use Zyprexa

Zyprexa Precautions

Zyprexa Misdose

Zyprexa Interactions

Zyprexa Side Effects

Zyprexa Storage