Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Zyprexa?
According to the
Zyprexa® (
olanzapine) prescribing information, drinking alcohol while on Zyprexa is not recommended. Combining alcohol and Zyprexa can increase the chance and severity of several
Zyprexa side effects. Additionally, for many people with mental illness, it is usually recommended to avoid alcohol.
Alcohol and Zyprexa Side Effects
Drinking alcohol may increase your risk of certain Zyprexa side effects, such as drowsiness or low
blood pressure (when sitting or standing up). You may also be more sensitive to the effects of alcohol if you are taking Zyprexa. You may not be able to safely drink as much alcohol as you are used to drinking in the past.
Zyprexa is approved to treat
schizophrenia and
bipolar disorder. Generally, it is best for people with these mental illnesses to avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol may worsen mental illness and is often a form of "self-medication."
Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Alcohol and Zyprexa
Although it is not recommended that you drink alcohol while taking Zyprexa, you should not be afraid to discuss your alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider. Together, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about Zyprexa and alcohol for your particular situation. If you do drink, your healthcare provider can also suggest ways to help you stop drinking.
