Zyprexa Zydis (Olanzapine ODT)

What is Zyprexa Zydis?

Zyprexa (olanzapine) is an antipsychotic medicine.

What is Zyprexa Zydis used for?

Zyprexa is indicated for the treatment of symptoms of psychotic conditions like bipolar disorder (manic depression) and schizophrenia in adults and children aged 13 years and above. The medication also helps reduce nervousness and improves concentration.

How does Zyprexa Zydis work?

Zyprexa works by restoring the balance of certain natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

How to use Zyprexa Zydis

Zyprexa should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in smaller or larger amounts than recommended can cause health problems.

The drug is usually taken once daily. It can be taken with or without food. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day.

Before using the orally disintegrating tablets or Zyprexa Zydis, wash and dry your hands. Place the tablet on the tongue and it will soon begin to dissolve. Do not chew the tablet. Drink a glass of water after the tablet dissolves completely.

If you are diabetic, you need to get your blood sugar levels checked regularly while using Zyprexa as the medication can cause hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

Zyprexa Zydis warnings and precautions

Do not use Zyprexa in dementia-related psychotic conditions or if you are allergic to the drug.

Prior to taking Zyprexa, tell your doctor if you have low or high blood pressure, heart or liver disease, heart rhythm problems, epilepsy, high cholesterol or triglycerides, diabetes, enlarged prostate, bowel problems, difficulty in urination, narrow-angle glaucoma; or a history of low WBC (white blood cell) counts, breast cancer, stroke or heart attack.                                          

While using Zyprexa avoid drinking alcohol or performing activities that require alertness, for example, driving. Drink plenty of fluids and do not become overheated or dehydrated. Stand up slowly in order to prevent a fall.

Pregnant and lactating women should not use this drug without consu

What do I do if I have missed a Zyprexa Zydis dose?

If you have missed your Zyprexa dose you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Zyprexa Zydis overdose?

If you have taken a Zyprexa overdose you should seek medical attention.

Zyprexa Zydis interactions

Before taking Zyprexa, consult your doctor if you take carbamazepine (Tegretol), fluvoxamine (Luvox), heart or blood pressure medication, rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate), omeprazole (Prilosec), fluoxetine and olanzapine (Symbyax), diazepam (Valium), or medication to treat Parkinson’s disease which includes selegiline (Emsam, Eldepryl), levodopa (Larodopa, Sinemet, Atamet), ropinirole (Requip), or pramipexole (Mirapex).

Tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use, especially those that make you sleepy. Also, do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Zyprexa Zydis side effects

Zyprexa side effects include hives, fever, chills, uneven heart rate, stiff muscles, confusion, increased sweating, tremors, feeling that you might lose consciousness, swallowing or speaking trouble, increased thirst, increased frequency of urination, dry skin, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, high blood sugar, sudden weakness, body ache, sores in throat or mouth, stomach ache, dark-colored urine, clay-colored stools, itching, jaundice, hallucinations, breathing trouble; problems with speech, vision or balance; swelling of face, hands, feet, tongue, lips or throat and other allergic reactions. If you get any of these side effects after using Zyprexa, stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor.

Dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, weight gain, increased appetite, memory problems, headache, constipation, backache, missed menstrual periods, loss of bladder control, constipation, breast swelling or discharge (in men or women) are some less serious side effects of Zyprexa.