Zyprexa

olanzapine

Uses of Zyprexa

Zyprexa is used in managing schizophrenia symptoms as well manic depression and additional psychotic depressions, and is an antipsychotic medication that is atypical.

Zyprexa Dosage

Zyprexa should be taken as directed by the physician. It should be taken orally without food.

Zyprexa should be taken along with plenty of fluids and you should confirm the instructions with your doctor. In addition, do not miss any dose of the drug even when you feel well.

Drug classification and mechanism

Zyprexa works by changing the way chemicals act in the brain since it is an antipsychotic drug.

Any missed dose of Zyprexa should be taken as soon as possible. However if the missed dose happens to coincide with the next dose, then it should be skipped altogether in order to avoid taking more than one dose at a time.

Storage

Zyprexa should be stored at room temperature of between 68-77°F (20-25°C). It should be kept away from light, moisture and heat. In addition, the drug should be kept away from the reach of children and pets.

Zyprexa Side effects

If any of the following side effects becomes bothersome or persists, inform your prescribing physician:

• Constipation, back pains, joint pains, drowsiness, dizziness, increased appetite, dry mouth, lightheadedness, indigestion, tingling and numbness of the skin, sore throat, weight gain, weakness and restlessness.

If any of the following side effects appear, medical help should be sought immediately:

• Severe allergies (hives, rash, itching, tightness of the chest, breathing difficulties, swelling of the face, tongue lips or mouth); chest pains; abnormal thoughts; confusion; fainting, reduced urination; fever, irregular heart beat, drooling or increased production of saliva; memory loss; intense sweating; muscle pains; menstrual changes; worsening or new mood and mental changes (such as hallucinations and depression); seizures, severe headaches and dizziness, short breath, swelling of the legs, feet or hands; high blood sugar symptoms (such as abnormal weakness, increased hunger, thirst, urination); lack of concentration, tremors; trouble swallowing and speaking; trouble standing or walking; uncontrollable muscle movements( such as twitching of the tongue or face, leg or arm movements, twisting or jerking); yellow skin or eyes; changes in vision; unusual bruising.

Zyprexa should not be shared, but should only be used by patients that have prescriptions. You should consult with your physician if your symptoms fail to improve or get worse.

Information for safety

You should avoid using Zyprexa if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

There are a number of medical conditions that Zyprexa may interact with and you should inform you physician if you suffer from any of these conditions below;

• If you are breastfeeding, pregnant or planning to conceive
• If you are allergic to foods medicines or any substances
• If you are on any other medication such as dietary supplements, non- prescription or prescription medicine and herbal preparations.
• If you have had seizures or heart problems in the past (such as irregular heart beat or heart failure); stroke, heart attack, abnormal ECG (Electro Cardiogram), problems of blood vessels; low or high blood pressure as well high levels of blood cholesterol.
• If in the test you have had bowel or stomach problems (such as decreased movement of muscles); liver problems; narrow angle glaucoma, enlarged prostate. NMS (Narcoleptic Malignant Syndrome), suicidal attempts or thoughts and aspiration pneumonia.
• If you have trouble swallowing, dementia or Alzheimer
• If you have had certain cancers in the past (such as pituitary, pancreas or breast cancer) or if you are at a high risk of contracting breast cancer.
• If you smoke, drink alcohol, or if you are dehydrated, or if you are likely to experience high temperatures
• If you or a family member has a history of diabetes or if you are overweight.

There are some medications that could interact with Zyprexa. You should inform you physician if you are on any drug, especially if you are taking any of the drugs below

• Anticholinergics such as fluvoxamine, lorazepam or scopolamine since they are likely to increase the risk of the side effects of Zyprexa.
• Dopamine receptor agonists such as levodopa or pramipexolesince Zyprexa may reduce their effectiveness.
• Alpha blockers such as doxazosin, diazepam and any high blood pressure medication as they may increase the risks of fainting and low blood pressure.
• Inhibitors of HIV protease such as ritonavir, carbamazepine, rifampin or omeprazole since they may reducethe effectiveness of Zyprexa.