Zyprexa

Zyprexa: an effective drug for the treatment of psychosis and schizophrenia

Zyprexa, also known by its international name Olanzapine, is a pharmaceutical drug developed by the German company Eli Lilly and manufactured in both Germany and the UK. It belongs to the pharmacological group of antipsychotics - dibenzodiazepine derivatives.

Zyprexa is available in several dosage forms, including film-coated tablets in dosages of 5 mg and 10 mg, as well as powder for injection, intended for the preparation of intramuscular solution in dosages of 10 mg.

The main active ingredient in Zyprexa is olanzapine. The drug is used to treat various psychoses, including schizophrenia, including productive and negative symptoms in the acute form of the disease. In addition, Zyprexa is used to relieve secondary affective disorders in schizophrenia, as well as to relieve nausea, vomiting and persistent hiccups.

Before using Zyprexa, you should familiarize yourself with the contraindications. The drug is not recommended in case of hypersensitivity to its components, during pregnancy and lactation, as well as in case of impaired liver function, epilepsy and other conditions accompanied by increased convulsive readiness. Also, the use of the drug is prohibited for children and adolescents under 18 years of age.

Like any medicine, Zyprexa may cause side effects. The most common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, akathisia, hyperlactinemia, weight gain, peripheral edema, orthostatic hypotension, dry mouth, constipation, estrapyramidal disorders, cholestatic jaundice, allergic skin reactions and others.

It is important to pay attention to the interactions of Zyprexa with other medications. The use of ethanol together with the drug can enhance its inhibitory effect on the central nervous system. You should also remember that the drug may reduce the effectiveness of drugs containing levodopa. Carbamazepine may accelerate the clearance of Zyprexa.

In case of an overdose of Zyprexa, various symptoms may occur, such as nausea, drowsiness, confusion of speech, mydriasis (dilated pupils), respiratory failure, convulsions and others. In such cases, you should immediately seek medical help.

In conclusion, Zyprexa (Olanzapine) is an effective drug for the treatment of psychosis and schizophrenia. However, before using it, you should consult your doctor and become familiar with the contraindications and possible side effects. Self-medication and changing the dosage of the drug are not recommended without consultation with a medical specialist.