Olanzapine
Olanzapine (Zyprexa) is an atypical antipsychotic for Schizophrenia and Bipolar I Disorder, both under Mental Health. One product is on this shelf: Zyprexa, in six tablet strengths from 2.5 mg to 20 mg.
Key points
- Older adults with dementia face an increased risk of death and stroke when treated with antipsychotics such as olanzapine.
- Olanzapine may raise blood sugar even in people without diabetes, and untreated ketoacidosis can become life-threatening.
- The medicine may reduce the symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder, but it will not cure either condition.
How does Olanzapine work?
Olanzapine changes the activity of certain natural substances in the brain, mainly dopamine and serotonin. By adjusting how these chemical messengers signal between nerve cells, it reduces the hallucinations, disordered thinking and extreme mood swings that characterise schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder.