Zyprexa

Description

Zyprexa (olanzapine) is an atypical antipsychotic medication that can be prescribed for the management of symptoms of psychotic disorders as well as for the short-term treatment of acute manic episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. Zyprexa can also be used for the prevention of recurrences in patients with bipolar I disorder whose prior manic episodes have responded to olanzapine treatment. A combination of olanzapine with either lithium or valproate can be used for the short-term treatment of acute manic episodes associated with bipolar I disorder.

The main effect that olanzapine has is to block some dopamine receptors in the brain, correcting the overactivity of that neurotransmitter. Olanzapine also has effects on other neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin (5-HT), which may also contribute to its beneficial effects in treating psychotic conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and manic depression in adults and children over the age of 12.

Dosage

The dosage and regime will be determined only by the doctor. It may take some time before the correct dose is found. Do not chew, crush, or split the tablets. Swallow the tablets with some water.

If an overdose has been taken accidentally or if a child has accidentally swallowed the medicine, call 911 or go immediately to a hospital emergency room and take the medicine package with you.