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Drug

Olanzapine Pamoate

Pronounced

"oh-LAN-zuh-peen"

Uses

This medication is used to treat a certain mental/mood disorder (schizophrenia). Extended-release olanzapine injection is a long-acting form of olanzapine. 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 in teenagers). See also Warning and Precautions sections.

Warning

This long-acting form of olanzapine injection may cause serious side effects, including severe drowsiness, inability to wake up (coma), and confusion (delirium) after injection. Your doctor/healthcare professional will monitor you closely at the healthcare facility for at least 3 hours after each injection. Have someone drive you home after your injection.

To receive the long acting form of olanzapine injection in the United States, you must understand, agree to, and carefully follow the requirements of the REMS Program for this medication. If you live in Canada or any other country, consult your doctor and pharmacist for your country's regulations.

There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (such as stroke, heart failure, fast/irregular heartbeat, pneumonia) when this medication is used by older adults with dementia. This medication is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication, as well as other effective and possibly safer treatments for dementia-related behavior problems, with the doctor.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get an injection. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

There are 2 types of olanzapine injection (short- and long-acting). These 2 forms have different uses and dosing and the 2 products are not interchangeable. There is also a form that can be taken by mouth. The extended-release injection should only be used if you have already taken olanzapine by mouth without any serious side effects.

This medication is given by injection into the buttock muscle by a health care professional. It is given as directed by your doctor, usually every 2 to 4 weeks. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

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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.

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Information expires December 2025.