Zyprexa Side Effects and Dangers

Zyprexa, which is the generic version of Olanzapine, is an atypical antipsychotic drug prescribed to treat mental/mood disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is also used with the drug fluoxetine to treat depression in some patients. As with any prescription drug, there are side effects that can range from mild to severe.

Function

• Zyprexa works by altering chemicals in the brain to improve on the symptoms of nervousness, lack of concentration and hallucinations that occur with mental illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Time Frame

• Zyprexa can take up to four weeks for symptoms to improve.

Side Effects

• Sleepiness, lack of energy, increased appetite, changes in behavior, dizziness, tremors, dry mouth, restlessness and constipation are the most commonly seen side effects.

Serious Effects

• More serious side effects include high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. Weight gain, tardive dyskinesia and neuraleptic malignant syndrome are conditions that can occur from taking Zyprexa.

Warning

• Zyprexa should not be taken by elderly dementia patients. Zyprexa can cause heart failure, sudden death and pneumonia.