Kynapine Odt (Olanzapine)

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic used to manage major psychiatric disorders.

• Schizophrenia: Reduces positive and negative symptoms and helps prevent relapse.
• Bipolar disorder: Controls manic episodes and stabilises mood over the long term.
• Manic episodes: Alleviates acute mania and maintains mood stability.

• Olanzapine exerts its therapeutic effect by antagonizing dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5‑HT2A receptors in the central nervous system. This combined blockade modulates dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission, reducing psychotic symptoms and mood disturbances. The drug also shows affinity for histamine H1, muscarinic and α1‑adrenergic receptors, contributing to its overall clinical profile.

Olanzapine may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to serious.

Common Side Effects

• Sedation: Drowsiness or feeling unusually sleepy.
• Weight gain: Increased appetite leading to body‑weight increase.
• Dry mouth: Reduced salivation causing discomfort.
• Constipation: Slowed gastrointestinal motility.
• Dizziness: Light‑headed sensation, especially when standing.
• Increased appetite: May contribute to weight changes.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: Potentially life‑threatening reaction with fever and muscle rigidity.
• Agranulocytosis: Severe reduction in white blood cells, increasing infection risk.
• Tardive dyskinesia: Involuntary, repetitive movements that may be irreversible.
• Severe hyperglycemia: Marked rise in blood glucose levels.
• Seizures: Occurrence of convulsive episodes.
• Myocarditis: Inflammation of the heart muscle.

Olanzapine requires careful monitoring and specific safety measures.

• Monitor metabolic parameters: Check weight, glucose and lipid levels regularly.
• Assess cardiovascular risk: Evaluate blood pressure and lipid profile before and during therapy.
• Screen for extrapyramidal symptoms: Observe for movement disorders such as rigidity or tremor.
• Use caution in hepatic impairment: Adjust dosing as needed for reduced liver function.
• Avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to olanzapine.
• Store at ambient temperature below 25°C: Keep in original packaging, protect from moisture.

Olanzapine can interact with several medicines, altering its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine): May increase olanzapine plasma concentrations.
• CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines): Additive sedation and respiratory depression risk.
• Anticholinergic agents: May exacerbate cognitive side effects.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CYP1A2 inducers (e.g., smoking, carbamazepine): May reduce olanzapine effectiveness.
• Lithium: Combined use may increase neurotoxicity risk.
• Antihypertensives: May enhance orthostatic hypotension when used together.