Effects of Zyprexa

Zyprexa® (olanzapine) is a prescription medication approved to treat conditions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
 
In clinical studies, people with schizophrenia experienced improvements in their symptoms (including hallucinations and suspiciousness) while taking Zyprexa, compared to those not taking it. Other studies have shown that Zyprexa can help people from needing to be hospitalized and can help symptoms from returning.
 
Studies have also shown Zyprexa to be effective for bipolar disorder treatment. In these studies, Zyprexa was effective when used alone or with other bipolar disorder medications.
 
As a type of atypical (or second-generation) antipsychotic medication, Zyprexa blocks or lessens the effects of several chemicals in the brain. These brain chemicals (such as dopamine and serotonin) may be elevated in people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression).
 
Zyprexa is not a cure for bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. It only helps to control symptoms.
 
(Click Zyprexa for a more in-depth look at the effects of Zyprexa, including information on how it works, general safety concerns, and potential side effects.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;