About olanzapine
Atypical antipsychotic
Used for
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar I disorder, including manic or mixed episodes
Usual adult dose
Schizophrenia: usually 5–10 mg once daily initially; typical range 5–20 mg daily. Bipolar mania: usually 10–15 mg daily.
Usual dose in children
For ages 13–17: usually 2.5–5 mg once daily initially; typical range 2.5–20 mg daily for schizophrenia or bipolar mania.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness
- Weight gain and increased appetite
- Dizziness
- Raised blood sugar or cholesterol
Important warnings
- May increase blood sugar, cholesterol, and body weight.
- Can cause severe sleepiness, low blood pressure, or movement problems.
- Older adults with dementia-related psychosis have increased risk of death; not approved for this use.
- Rarely causes neuroleptic malignant syndrome or a serious blood-cell disorder.
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only when benefits outweigh risks; newborns may have withdrawal or movement symptoms after late-pregnancy exposure.
Breastfeeding
Olanzapine passes into breast milk; discuss potential infant sleepiness and feeding difficulties with a healthcare professional.
Interactions
- Alcohol and sedatives can worsen drowsiness.
- Fluvoxamine may raise olanzapine levels; smoking may lower them.
- Carbamazepine may lower olanzapine levels.
- Dopamine agonists may have reduced effects.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.