Side Effects of Olanzapine: An Introduction
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with
olanzapine (
Zyprexa®); however, not everyone who takes olanzapine will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate olanzapine well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with olanzapine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of olanzapine side effects with you.)
Olanzapine Side Effects to Report
There are a number of side effects with olanzapine that you should report to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
- Signs of diabetes, such as high blood sugar, increased thirst, frequent urination, and/or extreme hunger (see Zyprexa and Diabetes)
- Large or rapid weight gain
- Dizziness or fainting when going from a sitting or lying-down position to standing
- Feelings of restless or jitteriness
- Any abnormal muscle movements (these abnormal movements can become permanent if olanzapine is not stopped quickly)
- Signs or symptoms of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, which can include:
- A high fever
- Stiff muscles
- Confusion
- Irregular pulse or blood pressure
- An increased heart rate (tachycardia)
- Sweating
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
- Signs of an allergic reaction, including unexplained rash, hives, itching, unexplained swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing or swallowing.
