Search Content

Olanzapine

This form:

Pronounced

"oh-LAN-zuh-peen"

Common brand names:

Zyprexa

Uses

This medication is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder). It may also be used in combination with other medication to treat depression. Olanzapine belongs to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain.

Talk to the doctor about the risks and benefits of treatment (especially when used by teenagers). See also Precautions section.

Other Uses

This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This drug may also be used to reduce the risk of nausea and vomiting caused by cancer drug treatment (chemotherapy).

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking olanzapine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

RxAnswers™ is a copyrighted combined product from TraceGains and First DataBank, Inc.

Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

Learn more about First DataBank

There are some limitations on the information provided in “Nutrient Interactions.” Do NOT rely solely on the information in this article. Please read the disclaimer.

Learn more about TraceGains, the company.

TraceGains and/or its suppliers make no warranties or representations as to the accuracy or completeness of this content herein or that of any organization referred or linked to within this content and will not be liable for any damages arising out of your access to or use of any information found herein or that of any organization referred to within this content.

Information expires December 2025.