Zyprexa  

Antipsychotic medication Olanzapine (Zyprexa) alters brain chemicals. In adults and children aged at least 13 years old, Zyprexa is prescribed to treat psychotic conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Zyprexa is also prescribed for people with bipolar disorder who have depression, together with fluoxetine.

How does Zyprexa work?

Antipsychotic medicines, like Zyprexa, contain the active ingredient olanzapine. In contrast to older antipsychotic medications available since the 1950s, this drug is an atypical antipsychotic.

It attaches to various receptors on nerve cells in the brain. This disrupts the transmission of the signal between nerve cells by neurotransmitters, chemicals necessary for effective communication between nerve cells.

The antidepressant effect of olanzapine is believed to be due to its blocking of 5-hydroxytryptamine and dopamine receptors. Olanzapine, since it helps regulate the brain's activity, reduces schizophrenia and bipolar disorder symptoms.

How to use Zyprexa

When patients get a refill or start taking olanzapine, they should read the Medication Guide provided by the pharmacist. The doctors or pharmacists can answer any questions patients may have. The doctor will guide patients on how to take this medication, usually once a day, with or without food.

To use Zyprexa, one should open the blister after opening the sachet then peel away the foil before pushing the tablet through

They should then place the entire tablet in the patient's mouth immediately after opening the blister using dry hands.

It is easy to swallow these tablets with or without liquid since disintegration in saliva occurs rapidly.

Dosage

A once-daily dose of oral Zyprexa is commonly recommended, usually beginning with a 5 to 10 mg dose and gradually increasing to 10 mg daily over subsequent days.

Patients will receive the dosage that is appropriate for their condition and response. The doctors may recommend that patients start with a low dose of this medication and gradually increase the amount to reduce the risk of adverse effects.

Regularly taking this medication will give patients the most benefit. One should keep the same time each day so they can remember to take it. No matter how well patients feel, they should keep taking this medicine. This medication should not be stopped without consulting a physician.

Side effects of Zyprexa include:

• Constipation
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Lightheadedness
• Tiredness
• Weight gain
• Restlessness

Precautions

Patients may experience thinking or reaction problems while taking Zyprexa. One should be cautious when driving or performing any other activity that requires alertness.

Zyprexa should not be taken with alcohol.

It is not recommended for older adults who have dementia-related psychosis to take Zyprexa.

Taking this medicine may result in weight gain, high cholesterol, or triglycerides (a type of fat), especially in teenagers. It may be necessary to test blood frequently. Patients should schedule regular medical appointments.

Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) is a possible side effect of olanzapine. While taking this medication, patients should regularly monitor patients' blood sugar levels if patients have diabetes.

Interactions

Other medicines that can slow patients breathing or make patients may interact with Zyprexa.

Zyprexa may also interact with:

Heart or blood pressure medications

• Diazepam,
• Carbamazepine
• Fluoxetine
• Fluvoxamine
• Olanzapine
• Rifampin
• Medicines for Parkinson's disease

Alternatives

Abilify

In addition to treating depression and bipolar disorders, Abilify is also prescribed for autism and some cases of irritable behavior. Abilify is recommended at a dose of 15 grams per day.

Eskalith (lithium)

This prescription drug is used in the treatment of the bipolar disorder. The use of Eskalith may be combined with other medications. Eskalith belongs to the Bipolar Disorder Agents class of drugs. Recommended daily dosage is 900 mg to 1,200 mg.

Zyprexa storage

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25°C. Protect from light and moisture.

Patients can get the quickest delivery and the best price on Zyprexa when they order from Kiwi Drug. Kiwi Drug's Online Pharmacy and doctor consultations make digital health care accessible to patients worldwide at affordable costs.