Olanzapine 20mg Tablets
WARNING: There is a higher chance of death in older adults who take this drug for mental problems caused by dementia. Most of the deaths were linked to heart disease or infection. This drug is not approved to treat mental problems caused by dementia. @ COMMON USES: It is used to treat bipolar disorder. It is used to treat schizophrenia.It is used to treat depression.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
See FDA label
Overview
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication Correctly
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of non-caffeinated fluids, unless your doctor advises you to limit your fluid intake.
Be mindful of your body's fluid balance, especially in hot weather or when engaging in physical activity. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
You can take this medication with or without food. If it causes stomach upset, take it with food to help alleviate this side effect.
Continue taking your medication as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To maintain the effectiveness and safety of your medication:
Store it at room temperature, away from direct light and moisture.
Keep it in a dry place, avoiding storage in a bathroom.
Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal methods, and consider participating in local drug take-back programs.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Avoid taking two doses at the same time or taking extra doses to make up for the missed one.
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of non-caffeinated fluids, unless your doctor advises you to limit your fluid intake.
Be mindful of your body's fluid balance, especially in hot weather or when engaging in physical activity. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
You can take this medication with or without food. If it causes stomach upset, take it with food to help alleviate this side effect.
Continue taking your medication as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To maintain the effectiveness and safety of your medication:
Store it at room temperature, away from direct light and moisture.
Keep it in a dry place, avoiding storage in a bathroom.
Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal methods, and consider participating in local drug take-back programs.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Avoid taking two doses at the same time or taking extra doses to make up for the missed one.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Olanzapine ODT 20mg Tablets
- Olanzapine ODT 15mg Tablets
- Olanzapine ODT 10mg Tablets
- Olanzapine ODT 5mg Tablets
- Olanzapine 10mg Inj, 1 Vial
- Olanzapine ODT 5mg Tablets
- Olanzapine 15mg Tablets
- Olanzapine 2.5mg Tablets
- Olanzapine 20mg Tablets
- Olanzapine 10mg Tablets
- Olanzapine 5mg Tablets
- Olanzapine 7.5mg Tablets
- Olanzapine 10mg Inj, 1 Vial
Dosing & Administration
Pharmacology
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash or hives
+ Itching or red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever)
+ Wheezing or tightness in the chest or throat
+ Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar, including:
+ Confusion or feeling sleepy
+ Unusual thirst or hunger
+ Frequent urination
+ Flushing or fast breathing
+ Breath that smells like fruit
Movement problems, such as:
+ Trouble controlling body movements
+ Twitching or changes in balance
+ Difficulty swallowing or speaking
New or worsening mental, mood, or behavioral changes, including:
+ Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Severe dizziness or fainting
Abnormal heartbeat (fast or slow)
Inability to sweat during physical activity or in warm temperatures
Seizures
Drooling
Changes in vision
Memory problems or loss
Chest pain
Swelling
Burning, numbness, or tingling sensations
Difficulty urinating
Hormonal changes, such as:
+ Enlarged breasts or nipple discharge
+ Erectile dysfunction or menstrual changes
Swollen glands
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, characterized by:
+ Fever
+ Muscle cramps or stiffness
+ Dizziness
+ Severe headache
+ Confusion or changes in thinking
+ Abnormal heartbeat or excessive sweating
Low white blood cell count, which can increase the risk of infection; if you have a history of low white blood cell count, inform your doctor and seek medical attention if you experience:
+ Fever
+ Chills
+ Sore throat
Tardive dyskinesia, a severe muscle problem, which may be more likely to occur in people with diabetes, older adults (especially older females), or those taking higher doses or using the medication for an extended period; seek medical help if you experience:
+ Trouble controlling body movements
+ Problems with your tongue, face, mouth, or jaw, such as tongue sticking out, puffing cheeks, mouth puckering, or chewing
Other Possible Side Effects
While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it is essential to be aware of the following potential side effects. If you are concerned about any of these symptoms or if they persist, contact your doctor:
Dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness, or weakness
Restlessness or shakiness
Headache
Constipation
Dry mouth
Upset stomach
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Back pain
Joint pain
* Difficulty sleeping
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash or hives
+ Itching or red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever)
+ Wheezing or tightness in the chest or throat
+ Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar, including:
+ Confusion or feeling sleepy
+ Unusual thirst or hunger
+ Frequent urination
+ Flushing or fast breathing
+ Breath that smells like fruit
Movement problems, such as:
+ Trouble controlling body movements
+ Twitching or changes in balance
+ Difficulty swallowing or speaking
New or worsening mental, mood, or behavioral changes, including:
+ Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Severe dizziness or fainting
Abnormal heartbeat (fast or slow)
Inability to sweat during physical activity or in warm temperatures
Seizures
Drooling
Changes in vision
Memory problems or loss
Chest pain
Swelling
Burning, numbness, or tingling sensations
Difficulty urinating
Hormonal changes, such as:
+ Enlarged breasts or nipple discharge
+ Erectile dysfunction or menstrual changes
Swollen glands
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, characterized by:
+ Fever
+ Muscle cramps or stiffness
+ Dizziness
+ Severe headache
+ Confusion or changes in thinking
+ Abnormal heartbeat or excessive sweating
Low white blood cell count, which can increase the risk of infection; if you have a history of low white blood cell count, inform your doctor and seek medical attention if you experience:
+ Fever
+ Chills
+ Sore throat
Tardive dyskinesia, a severe muscle problem, which may be more likely to occur in people with diabetes, older adults (especially older females), or those taking higher doses or using the medication for an extended period; seek medical help if you experience:
+ Trouble controlling body movements
+ Problems with your tongue, face, mouth, or jaw, such as tongue sticking out, puffing cheeks, mouth puckering, or chewing
Other Possible Side Effects
While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it is essential to be aware of the following potential side effects. If you are concerned about any of these symptoms or if they persist, contact your doctor:
Dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness, or weakness
Restlessness or shakiness
Headache
Constipation
Dry mouth
Upset stomach
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Back pain
Joint pain
* Difficulty sleeping
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor identify potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any existing health problems, as they may affect the safety and efficacy of this medication.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that this medication can be taken with all your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor. By sharing this information, you can help your doctor make informed decisions about your treatment and minimize potential risks.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor identify potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any existing health problems, as they may affect the safety and efficacy of this medication.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that this medication can be taken with all your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor. By sharing this information, you can help your doctor make informed decisions about your treatment and minimize potential risks.
Precautions & Cautions
Important Warnings and Precautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.
Caution with Daily Activities
Until you know how this medication affects you, avoid driving and other activities that require alertness. To minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting, get up slowly from a sitting or lying down position, and be cautious when climbing stairs.
Monitoring and Laboratory Tests
Drugs similar to this one have been associated with increased risks of high blood sugar, diabetes, high cholesterol, and weight gain, which may contribute to heart and brain blood vessel disease. Therefore, it is crucial to:
- Monitor your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor.
- Undergo regular blood work and other laboratory tests as advised by your doctor.
Interactions with Other Substances
- Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication.
- Before using marijuana, cannabis, or prescription/over-the-counter drugs that may cause drowsiness, consult with your doctor.
Potential Side Effects
This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and instability, which can increase the risk of falls, broken bones, and other health issues.
Severe Reaction Warning
A severe and potentially life-threatening reaction can occur, characterized by symptoms such as fever, rash, swollen glands, and problems in organs like the liver, kidney, blood, heart, muscles and joints, or lungs. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
Special Considerations
- Older adults with dementia who take medications like this one have a higher risk of strokes, which can be fatal. This medication is not approved for treating dementia-related mental problems.
- If you are 65 or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.
- When used in children, this medication requires careful consideration, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher.
Reproductive and Pregnancy Considerations
- This medication may affect fertility, but this effect is reversible upon discontinuation of the medication. If you have questions, consult with your doctor.
- If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.
- Taking this medication during the third trimester of pregnancy may lead to side effects or withdrawal symptoms in the newborn.
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.
Caution with Daily Activities
Until you know how this medication affects you, avoid driving and other activities that require alertness. To minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting, get up slowly from a sitting or lying down position, and be cautious when climbing stairs.
Monitoring and Laboratory Tests
Drugs similar to this one have been associated with increased risks of high blood sugar, diabetes, high cholesterol, and weight gain, which may contribute to heart and brain blood vessel disease. Therefore, it is crucial to:
- Monitor your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor.
- Undergo regular blood work and other laboratory tests as advised by your doctor.
Interactions with Other Substances
- Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication.
- Before using marijuana, cannabis, or prescription/over-the-counter drugs that may cause drowsiness, consult with your doctor.
Potential Side Effects
This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and instability, which can increase the risk of falls, broken bones, and other health issues.
Severe Reaction Warning
A severe and potentially life-threatening reaction can occur, characterized by symptoms such as fever, rash, swollen glands, and problems in organs like the liver, kidney, blood, heart, muscles and joints, or lungs. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
Special Considerations
- Older adults with dementia who take medications like this one have a higher risk of strokes, which can be fatal. This medication is not approved for treating dementia-related mental problems.
- If you are 65 or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.
- When used in children, this medication requires careful consideration, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher.
Reproductive and Pregnancy Considerations
- This medication may affect fertility, but this effect is reversible upon discontinuation of the medication. If you have questions, consult with your doctor.
- If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.
- Taking this medication during the third trimester of pregnancy may lead to side effects or withdrawal symptoms in the newborn.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Special Patient Groups
Clinical Information
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health problems do not improve or worsen over time, it is essential to contact your doctor for further evaluation and guidance. To ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication.
This medication is accompanied by a Medication Guide, which is a detailed patient fact sheet. It is crucial to read this guide carefully and review it again whenever you receive a refill of your medication. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.
In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount consumed, and the time it occurred, as this will help healthcare professionals provide you with appropriate care and treatment.
This medication is accompanied by a Medication Guide, which is a detailed patient fact sheet. It is crucial to read this guide carefully and review it again whenever you receive a refill of your medication. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.
In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount consumed, and the time it occurred, as this will help healthcare professionals provide you with appropriate care and treatment.