Olanzapine

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication primarily used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It works by modulating the effects of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin and dopamine, which play key roles in mood regulation and thought processes. Olanzapine is available in various forms, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and intramuscular injections. Olanzapine is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It works by changing the effects of chemicals in the brain.

Indications

-Schizophrenia: Treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents aged 13-17 years. -Bipolar Disorder: Acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder, -Maintenance treatment of bipolar I disorder as either monotherapy or adjunct to lithium or valproate.

Dosage

-Schizophrenia: Initial dose typically 10-15 mg/day, adjusted based on individual response. -Bipolar Disorder: Acute phase: Initial dose usually 10-15 mg/day, maintenance: 5-20 mg/day. -Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on individual patient response and tolerability.

Contra-Indications

Olanzapine is contraindicated in: -Patients with known hypersensitivity to olanzapine or any component of the formulation. -Patients with a history of severe hepatic impairment. -Patients who have experienced severe reactions such as neuroleptic malignant syndrome or significant adverse cardiovascular events.

Special Precautions

-Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis are at increased risk of mortality. -Caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, or conditions predisposing to hypotension.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include weight gain, increased appetite, drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Serious side effects may include metabolic changes, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, and tardive dyskinesia.

Drug Interactions

-Central Nervous System Depressants: Enhanced sedative effects when taken with alcohol or other CNS depressants. -Antihypertensive Agents: May enhance the hypotensive effect. -Levodopa and Dopamine Agonists: Olanzapine may antagonize the effects of these medications. -CYP1A2 Inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine): May increase plasma concentrations of olanzapine. -CYP1A2 Inducers (e.g., smoking): May decrease plasma concentrations of olanzapine.