Skip to Content
Modyfi Icon

Olanzapine (Zyprexa) explained

Olanzapine (Zyprexa) is an atypical antipsychotic for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder; effective but associated with significant weight gain and metabolic effects.

FDA Approved

Olanzapine (Zyprexa) helps treat

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar mania/mixed
• Bipolar maintenance
• Treatment‑resistant depression (with fluoxetine)


additional medications

• Aripiprazole
• Lurasidone
• Quetiapine
• Ziprasidone

medication risks

• Metabolic syndrome (marked risk)
• Sedation and orthostasis
• Anticholinergic effects
• NMS (rare)
• Tardive dyskinesia (long‑term)

side effects

• Weight gain
• Somnolence
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Dizziness

WE'LL GET YOU THE RIGHT TOOLS

take the first step.

Get Started
Request Refill

FAQs

Q: What is olanzapine used for?
A: Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder; with fluoxetine for TRD.

Q: Does it cause weight gain?
A: Often significant—monitor weight, lipids, and glucose.

Q: Sedation?
A: Common—can impair alertness.

Q: Movement disorders?
A: EPS risk exists; monitor for tardive dyskinesia.

Q: Injection options?
A: Yes—short‑ and long‑acting forms exist.

helpful resources