Olanzapine Cristers (Olanzapine)

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic that modulates dopamine and serotonin pathways to treat serious mental health conditions.

• Schizophrenia: Reduces hallucinations, delusions and thought disorder.
• Bipolar I disorder (manic episodes): Helps control mood swings and acute mania.
• Bipolar II disorder (depressive episodes): Assists in stabilising mood and preventing depressive relapse.

• Olanzapine works by antagonizing dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5‑HT2A receptors, with additional activity at histamine H1, muscarinic and α‑adrenergic receptors. This receptor profile reduces dopaminergic transmission and modulates serotonergic activity, helping to balance neurotransmission implicated in psychotic and mood disorders.

Olanzapine may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are dose‑dependent and reversible.

Common Side Effects

• Weight gain: Increased appetite and caloric intake.
• Sedation: Drowsiness or feeling of being overly relaxed.
• Dry mouth: Reduced salivation.
• Constipation: Slowed gastrointestinal motility.
• Elevated triglycerides: Changes in lipid metabolism.
• Orthostatic hypotension: Light‑headedness on standing.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: Potentially life‑threatening reaction with fever and muscle rigidity.
• Tardive dyskinesia: Involuntary, repetitive movements that may be irreversible.
• Hyperglycaemia: Significant rise in blood glucose, may precipitate diabetes.
• Seizures: Increased risk of convulsive episodes.
• Agranulocytosis: Marked reduction in white‑blood cell count.
• Severe allergic reactions: Anaphylaxis or angio‑edema.

When prescribing Olanzapine, clinicians should assess individual risk factors and monitor patients regularly.

• Monitor metabolic parameters: Check weight, fasting glucose and lipid profile periodically.
• Assess for movement disorders: Watch for early signs of tardive dyskinesia or extrapyramidal symptoms.
• Evaluate cardiovascular status: Monitor blood pressure and heart rate, especially at treatment initiation.
• Review hepatic and renal function: Adjust dosing if significant impairment is present.
• Counsel on lifestyle: Encourage balanced diet and regular exercise to mitigate weight gain.
• Store at ambient temperature: Keep below 25°C in the original container, protected from moisture.

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Major Interactions (Avoid)

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