Olanzapine

Question 1

Drug Class

Answer 1

Antipsychotics

Question 2

Active

Answer 2

Olanzapine

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

• schizophrenia
• acute mania
• maintenance treatment in bipolar disorder

Question 4

Dose Range

Answer 4

2.5 - 20mg daily

Question 5

SE’s

Answer 5

• increase BSL, T2DM, photosensitivity
• weight gain
• drowsiness
• orthostatic hypotension
• dizziness
• anticholinergic SE (constipation, urinary retention/incontinence)
• neuroleptic malignant syndrome (fever, marked muscle rigidity)

Question 6

Counselling

Answer 6

Label: 1, 8, 16

• This medicine may cause drowsiness and may increase the effects of alcohol, cannabis or sleeping tablets. Do not drive or operate machinery if you are affected.
• Avoid excessive exposure to light due to increase risk of sunburn.
• You may feel dizzy on standing when taking this medicine. Get up gradually from sitting or lying to minimise this; sit or lie down if you become dizzy.
• Tell your doctor if you begin, or stop, smoking as your dose may need to be adjusted.
• It may take 1-2 weeks for a measurable response and 2-3 months for full effect.
• Taking your medicine regularly is important because stopping or taking it irregularly is associated with high risk of relapse and suicide.
• Avoid taking illicit substances.

Question 7

Monitoring

Answer 7

• monitor compliance and ensure overlap of drugs doesn’t occur
• monitor carefully for clinical improvement
• BSL
• weight
• BP
• Full Blood count
• liver function test
• EPSE
• cardiovascular effects
• Sedation and delirium