Zyprexa Side Effects

A few common side effects of Zyprexa include drowsiness, a dry mouth, and insomnia. While side effects of this medication are usually minor, certain Zyprexa side effects (such as rapid weight gain, signs of diabetes, and any abnormal muscle movements) are more serious and should be reported to your healthcare provider.

 

An Introduction to Zyprexa Side Effects

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Zyprexa® (olanzapine). However, not everyone who takes Zyprexa will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate Zyprexa 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 Zyprexa. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Zyprexa side effects with you.)
 

Common Zyprexa Side Effects

Zyprexa has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common Zyprexa side effects included:
 
  • Drowsiness -- in up to 35 percent of people
  • Dry mouth -- up to 32 percent (see Zyprexa and Dry Mouth)
  • Weight gain -- up to 26 percent (see Zyprexa and Weight Gain)
  • Increased appetite -- up to 24 percent
  • Dizziness -- up to 18 percent
  • Weakness -- up to 18 percent
  • Accidental injury -- up to 12 percent
  • Insomnia -- up to 12 percent (see Zyprexa and Insomnia)
  • Constipation -- up to 11 percent
  • Heartburn or indigestion -- up to 11 percent
  • Thirst -- up to 10 percent.
     
Some other common Zyprexa side effects (occurring in 5 percent to 9 percent of people) included:
 
  • Personality changes
  • Shakiness (tremors)
  • Low blood pressure, especially when sitting or standing up
  • A fever
  • Back pain
  • Joint pain
  • Changes in walking pattern
  • An irritated or runny nose
  • Coughing
  • Speech problems
  • Increased salivation
  • Memory loss (amnesia).
     
(Zyprexa Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;