This second section of our medication database entry focuses on potential side effects, withdrawal or discontinuation effects, and additional information, while part one covers basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits.
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What are the possible side effects of olanzapine?
- If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking olanzapine and seek emergency medical attention:
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or
- uncontrollable movements of the mouth, tongue, cheeks, jaw, arms, or legs.
- Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take olanzapine and talk to your doctor if you experience
- dizziness or drowsiness,
- agitation,
- an increased heart rate,
- constipation,
- dry mouth, or
- weight gain.
- Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect olanzapine?
- Carbamazepine (Tegretol) can decrease the effects of olanzapine. A change in your olanzapine dosage may be necessary.
- Olanzapine may increase the effects of medicines that are used to control high blood pressure. This could lead to very low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, and other symptoms. Tell your doctor if you are taking a medication to control your blood pressure or to treat another heart condition.
- Olanzapine may also increase the effects of drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (medicines that treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, muscle relaxants, and any other drug that makes you feel sleepy or relaxed. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves.
- Olanzapine may decrease the effects of levodopa (Sinemet, Larodopa, Dopar), which is used to treat Parkinson's disease. This could lead to worsening parkinsonian symptoms.
- Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with olanzapine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
Where can I get more information?
- Your pharmacist has more information about olanzapine written for health professionals that you may read.
- Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
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Although we have made considerable efforts to ensure that the information provided here is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, MedLibrary.org makes no guarantee to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. This medication information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend any specific pharmacotherapy. This is an educational resource only -- intended to supplement but not to replace the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of medically qualified healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, please check with your doctor, nurse or local pharmacist. MedLibrary.org does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information provided here.
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Version: 3.04. Revision Date: 2/14/03.