Zyprexa Zydis is an orally disintegrating tablet consisting of an atypical antipsychotic called olanzapine. We carry this medication in both the brand choice (Zyprexa) and the generic alternative (olanzapine) in 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, and 20mg! This medication is sometimes known as Zyprexa Velotab when purchased internationally.

Zyprexa Zydis is a medication used to treat symptoms of psychotic conditions. Psychotic conditions are severe mental disorders in which abnormal thinking and perceptions occur. People with these conditions usually lose touch with reality, the most common symptoms being delusions and hallucinations. Schizophrenia is an example of a psychotic condition treatable with Zyprexa Zydis.

Additionally, this medication is also used for the treatment of symptoms associated with mood disorders. Mood disorders are when the general state or mood of a person is distorted or inconsistent with surrounding circumstances. A person with a mood disorder may feel consistently sad or depressed or may have periods of depression followed by excessive happiness. Depression is an example of a mood disorder treatable with Zyprexa Zydis.

Both psychotic conditions and mood disorders are linked to an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Zyprexa Zydis (olanzapine) is effective at treating these disorders because it is able to restore the balance of chemicals in the brain.

Follow only the directions given to you by your doctor. Do not take more or less of a dose than directed. For the full benefit of the medication, ensure you take it regularly and create a routine by taking it around the same time every day.

This medication may only be part of a complete treatment program, which may also include counseling and other support programs. Follow all treatment instructions set in place by your doctor.

Keep this medication in the blister pack until you are ready to use it. Peel back the foil from the tablet blister to open it. Do not push a tablet through the foil or you may spoil the tablet. Using dry hands put the tablet in your mouth; you should feel it begin to dissolve instantly. Swallow several times as it dissolves but ensure you do not swallow the whole tablet. Allow it to dissolve without chewing. If needed, you may chase the tablet with a drink.

Store at room temperature in a low risk area of heat, light, and moisture.

Do not use Zyprexa Zydis (olanzapine)

Do not use Zyprexa Zydis if you are allergic to olanzapine or for use in psychotic conditions related to dementia.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

To ensure this medication is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had liver disease, heart disease, high or low blood pressure, low white blood cell count, high triglycerides or high cholesterol, heart failure, heart attack, or stroke, breast cancer, seizures or epilepsy, diabetes, an enlarged prostate or difficulty urinating, bowel problems, phenylketonuria (PKU), or narrow-angle glaucoma.

Risks

Long-term use of Zyprexa Zydis can cause a serious and irreversible movement disorder. The longer you use this medication, the more likely you are to develop this condition.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you plan on becoming pregnant. Taking antipsychotic medicine during that last 3 months of pregnancy may result in problems in the new born. This includes withdrawal symptoms such as withdrawal symptoms, breathing problems, feeding problems, fussiness, tremors, and limp or stiff muscles. You should not discontinue using this medication before speaking to your doctor if you find out you are pregnant during treatment.

This medication can pass into breast milk and has potential to harm a nursing infant. You should not breast feed while using Zyprexa Zydis.

Zyprexa Zydis can cause weight gain, high cholesterol and triglycerides, and high blood sugar. You may need frequent medical tests done during the time of treatment.

This medication may contain phenylalanine. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU); speak with your doctor before using this medication.

Common side effects of Zyprexa Zydis (olanzapine) may include:

weight gain (more likely in teenagers), increased appetite; headache, dizziness, drowsiness, feeling tired or restless; problems with speech or memory; tremors or shaking, numbness or tingly feeling; changes in personality; dry mouth, or increased salivation; stomach pain, constipation; or pain in your arms or legs.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Zyprexa Zydis (olanzapine) may include:

uncontrolled muscle movements in your face; trouble speaking or swallowing; swelling in your hands or feet; confusion, unusual thoughts or behavior, hallucinations, or thoughts about hurting yourself; sudden weakness or ill feeling, fever, chills, sore throat, swollen gums, painful mouth sores, pain when swallowing, skin sores, cold or flu symptoms, cough;

signs of dehydration - feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dry skin;

liver problems - upper stomach pain, itching, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);

high blood sugar - increased thirst, increased urination, hunger, dry mouth, fruity breath odor, drowsiness, dry skin, blurred vision, weight loss; or

severe nervous system reaction - very stiff (rigid) muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, feeling like you might pass out.

If you have any of the above side effects or signs of complications, contact your doctor right away.

What should I avoid while using Zyprexa Zydis?

While being treated with Zyprexa Zydis, you should over becoming overheated or dehydrated. You can do this by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. This medication can cause you to because dangerously dehydrated.

What should I do if I believe an overdose is occurring?

If you believe an overdose is occurring (symptoms may include drowsiness, agitation, aggression, slurred speech, confusion, increased heart rate, jerky or uncontrolled muscle movements, trouble breathing, or fainting), contact emergency medical services right away.

Any other tips I should be aware of?

Get up from sitting or lying positions slowly. If you get up too quickly, you risk becoming dizzy or falling and risking injury.

Can I drink alcohol while using this medication?

No. Drinking alcohol while taking this medication can pose dangerous side effects. Do not use alcohol while taking Zyprexa Zydis.