Olanzapine

Medically Reviewed by HaVy Ngo, Pharm.D.

Last Reviewed: Jun 15, 2022

Directions

How should I take olanzapine (Zypreza, Zypraxa Zydis, Zyprexa Relprevv)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Follow all directions on the prescription label and any medication guides if provided. The dose may be increased or decreased based on your response. Never take a larger or smaller amount than the prescribed dose.

Olanzapine can be used alone or in combination with other antipsychotic drugs or antidepressants. You must use these medications exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Read all the medication guides that are provided to you. Do not change the dose or dosing schedule unless you are instructed to do so by your doctor.

Olanzapine can be taken with or without food.

Olanzapine can cause hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). If you have diabetes, you should check your blood sugar regularly.

Olanzapine can cause some weight gain, high cholesterol, and high triglycerides. These adverse side effects are more common in teenagers.

You should have lab work done to ensure your blood sugar and blood cholesterol are not elevated.

Even if you feel fine, you should not stop taking olanzapine suddenly; doing so can lead to serious adverse effects. You should talk to your healthcare provider if you want to stop taking olanzapine.

Like other antipsychotic medications, olanzapine may be used in adjunct to non-pharmacological interventions such as counseling and other mental health support programs. You should be compliant with all treatment program components directed by your healthcare professional.

Let your doctor know if your symptoms get worse or do not improve or if you have thoughts about harming yourself or others.

Instructions for use for the orally disintegrating tablets (Zyprexa Zydis):

Ensure that your hands are dry before handling orally disintegrating tablets; moisture can disintegrate these tablets.
Use dry hands to peel the foil backing and take out the orally disintegrating tablet.
Do not push the tablet through the foil, as doing so can damage the tablet.
Place the orally disintegrating tablet on your tongue and let it dissolve.
Do not swallow it whole; do not chew, cut, break, or crush it.
After the tablet has melted on your tongue, you can swallow with or without liquid.

Missed dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose or take more than prescribed to make up for the missed dose.

Storage: Keep the medication in its original container or blister packs; keep it tightly closed, out of reach of children, pets, and other people. Like any other medications dispensed only with prescriptions, olanzapine should not be shared with anyone. Many people store their medications in the bathroom; this is not recommended due to moisture and heat.

Unused medications: Like other prescription medications, do not consume olanzapine after the expiration date. This medication is a prescription drug that is intended for your use only. Unneeded medicines should be disposed of appropriately so that children, pets, and other people cannot get to them. Your local pharmacy can provide information about medication drug take-back programs. You can also learn more about proper medication disposal.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary and may not contain all possible information. If you have more questions or concerns about olanzapine, talk to your pharmacist or doctor to ensure that this information applies to you or your family member.