Zyprexa (generic name: Olanzapine) belongs to a group of medicines called antipsychotics. It helps to correct chemical imbalances in the brain, which may cause mental illness.

Zyprexa is used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia and related psychoses.

Zyprexa alone, or in combination with lithium or valproate, is used for the short-term treatment of acute manic episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder. Zyprexa is also a mood stabiliser that prevents further occurrences of the disabling high and low (depressed) extremes of mood associated with Bipolar I Disorder.

Recommendations

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Take Zyprexa exactly as directed.

Your doctor will tell you how many Zyprexa tablets or wafers you should take. The dose your doctor will prescribe for you will usually be in the range 5 mg to 20 mg per day.

Your doctor may increase or decrease your dose in order to find the appropriate dose for your condition. A lower starting dose may be prescribed for elderly patients over the age of 65 years.

Zyprexa tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Zyprexa tablets or wafers should be taken once a day as advised by your doctor. Take your prescribed dose at the same time each day. Zyprexa tablets or wafers can be taken with or without food.

Do not stop taking Zyprexa just because you feel better. It is important that you do NOT stop taking Zyprexa unless your doctor tells you.

If you missed a dose of Zyprexa and it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose when you are meant to. Otherwise, take it as soon as you remember then go back to taking your medicine as you would normally. Do not take a double dose to make up for the dose that you missed. If you are not sure what to do, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

It is important that you remember to take Zyprexa daily and at the dose prescribed by your doctor.

Your doctor may suggest you avoid alcohol while you are being treated with Zyprexa.

Keep your tablets or wafers in a cool, dry place at room temperature.

Precautions

If you are not sure whether you should start taking Zyprexa, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Tell your doctor before taking Zyprexa, if:

you are allergic to any medicines; or suffer from lactose intolerance;
you have any serious medical conditions;
you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, or you are breast-feeding.

Ingredients

Active ingredient: olanzapine.