Oleanz

Oleanz Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Oleanz is a brand name. Its generic name is Olanzapine.

Oleanz (Zyprexa)

Oleanz is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses. It is available in both generic and brand name forms. It works by blocking certain receptors in the brain that are responsible for psychotic symptoms.

Uses of Oleanz

Oleanz is used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses. It can also be used to help patients with severe depression, Tourette’s Syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and autism.

Mechanism of Action

Oleanz works by blocking certain receptors in the brain that are responsible for psychotic symptoms. It increases the amount of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Oleanz can also block dopamine receptors in the brain, which can help reduce hallucinations or disorganized thinking.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

It typically takes a few weeks for olanzapine to start working. In some cases, it might take up to a few months for it to start working. The exact amount of time it takes to work varies for each individual.

Absorption

Oleanz is rapidly and completely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. The peak plasma levels are reached in 2-4 hours.

Route of Elimination

The majority of olanzapine is excreted unchanged in the urine. A small fraction of olanzapine is metabolized to its active metabolite, 10-hydroxyolanzapine.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose of olanzapine is 5mg once a day. It can be increased up to 20mg per day. This should be done in increments of 5mg at a time. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your symptoms and response to the drug. It is important to take olanzapine exactly as prescribed and not to take more than your doctor has ordered.

Administration

Oleanz is taken orally, typically once a day with or without food. Swallow the pills whole, do not crush, chew, or break the tablets.

Side Effects

Common side effects of olanzapine may include dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation, weight gain, and increased heart rate. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, unusual thoughts or behavior, and trouble sleeping.

Toxicity

Oleanz is considered a safe medication, but it may cause serious side effects. Symptoms of an overdose of olanzapine may include confusion, aggression, vomiting, and coma. If you suspect you have taken an overdose of olanzapine, contact emergency services immediately.

Precautions

Before taking olanzapine, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. Also tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Oleanz may increase the risk of falls and other injuries.

Interaction

Oleanz may interact with other medications, supplements, or herbal products. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before taking olanzapine. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose of olanzapine if you are taking any of the following medications: antibiotics, antifungals, antidepressants, blood thinners, diabetes medications, heart medications, seizure medications, HIV medication, and antipsychotics.

Drug Interactions

Oleanz may interact with certain drugs. Drugs that may interact with olanzapine include: antifungals, antibiotics, antidepressants, cancer medications, blood thinners, HIV medications, seizure medications, antidiabetics, and heart medications.

Food Interactions

Oleanz should be taken with food. Taking this medication with food may help to reduce stomach upset. Dairy products, high-fat meals, and antacids may reduce the absorption of olanzapine, so they should be avoided when taking this medication.

Pregnancy Use

Oleanz is not recommended for use in pregnancy due to the potential for harm to the fetus. Speak to your doctor before taking olanzapine if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Lactation Use

The effects of olanzapine on breastfeeding infants is unknown. If you are breastfeeding, discuss with your doctor if olanzapine is right for you.

Acute Overdose

Symptoms of an overdose of olanzapine may include confusion, aggression, vomiting, and coma. If you suspect you have taken an overdose of olanzapine, contact emergency services immediately.

Contraindication

Oleanz is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any other components of the medication.

Use Direction

Take olanzapine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the pills whole, do not crush, chew, or break the tablets. Do not take more than the prescribed dose. Take olanzapine with or without food.

Storage Condition

Store olanzapine at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep this medication out of reach of children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

Oleanz has a volume of distribution of 9-11 liters/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of olanzapine is approximately 21-53 hours, meaning that it takes 21-53 hours for the concentration of olanzapine in the bloodstream to be reduced by 50%.

Clearance

Oleanz has a clearance of 3-6 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Oleanz

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Oleanz

What is Oleanz?

Oleanz is an atypical antipsychotic drug commonly used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.

How does Oleanz work?

Oleanz works by blocking certain receptors in the brain that are associated with hallucinations and psychotic symptoms.

What are the side effects of Oleanz?

Common side effects of Oleanz include drowsiness, weight gain, dizziness, dry mouth, and constipation.

Can Oleanz be used for anxiety?

Oleanz is not approved for the treatment of anxiety but may be used off-label if other treatments have failed. It should be used with caution and monitored closely.

Can Oleanz be used for depression?

Yes, Oleanz is FDA approved for the treatment of depression when used in combination with another medication.

How long does it take for Oleanz to work?

The effects of Oleanz can vary depending on the individual. Generally, people may start to notice changes within a few weeks.

Can Oleanz be taken at night?

Yes, Oleanz can be taken at night. It is important to take it at the same time each day.

How is Oleanz dispensed?

Oleanz is available in tablets, disintegrating tablets, and oral solutions.

Is Oleanz addictive?

No, Oleanz is not considered to be addictive, but it can cause physical and psychological dependence. People should be monitored closely and tapered off the medication gradually.

What is Oleanz used to treat?

Oleanz is used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.

Can Oleanz cause weight gain?

Yes, Oleanz can cause weight gain. People should be monitored closely and encouraged to eat a healthy diet and exercise to mitigate these effects.

Does Oleanz lower blood pressure?

Yes, Oleanz can lower blood pressure. People should be monitored closely to ensure their blood pressure remains within a safe range.

Does Oleanz cause drowsiness?

Yes, Oleanz can cause drowsiness. People should not drive or operate heavy machinery until they know how the medication affects them.

Does Oleanz interact with other medications?

Yes, Oleanz can interact with other medications. People should tell their doctor about all medications they are taking before starting Oleanz.

Can Oleanz be used in children?

Oleanz is approved for use in adults and not recommended for use in children. Speak to a doctor before giving Oleanz to a child.

How should Oleanz be stored?

Oleanz should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. It should be kept out of reach of children and pets.

What happens if I miss a dose of Oleanz?

If you miss a dose of Oleanz, take it as soon as possible. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal schedule.

Does Oleanz cause constipation?

Yes, Oleanz can cause constipation. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating high-fiber foods may help to prevent this.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Oleanz?

No, it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Oleanz as it can increase the risk of side effects.

Is Oleanz used for schizophrena?

Yes, Oleanz is commonly used to treat schizophrenia.

Is Oleanz used for bipolar disorder?

Yes, Oleanz is also commonly used to treat bipolar disorder.

Does Oleanz cause dry mouth?

Yes, Oleanz can cause dry mouth. Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy may help to relieve this symptom.

Can I take Oleanz while pregnant?

Oleanz should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Speak to your doctor for more information.

Is Oleanz approved by the FDA?

Yes, Oleanz is FDA approved for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression when used in combination with another medication.

Are there any warnings associated with Oleanz?

Yes, Oleanz can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior, so people should be monitored closely for these effects.

How long should I take Oleanz for?

The length of time Oleanz should be taken for varies depending on the individual and should be discussed with a doctor.

Can Oleanz cause changes in mood?

Yes, Oleanz can cause changes in mood. People should be monitored closely for changes in mood or behavior.

Can Oleanz cause blurred vision?

Yes, in some cases Oleanz can cause blurred vision. People should report any changes in vision to their doctor.

Does Oleanz take effect immediately?

No, Oleanz does not take effect immediately. It may take several weeks for people to experience the full effects.

Can Oleanz cause nausea?

Yes, Oleanz can cause nausea. Eating small, frequent meals and avoiding foods that are high in fat may help to reduce the symptoms.

Are there any long-term side-effects of Oleanz?

Yes, long-term use of Oleanz can cause abnormal movements of the face and body such as tardive dyskinesia.

How can I reduce the side-effects of Oleanz?

Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol can help to reduce the side-effects of Oleanz.

Does Oleanz cause sleepiness?

Yes, Oleanz can cause sleepiness. People should not drive or operate heavy machinery until they know how the medication affects them.

Does Oleanz cause changes in appetite?

Yes, Oleanz can cause changes in appetite. Eating small, frequent meals and avoiding foods that are high in fat may help to reduce the symptoms.

Can Oleanz cause headaches?

Yes, Oleanz can cause headaches. Taking over-the-counter pain relief medications may help to reduce the symptoms.

Can Oleanz be used in the elderly?

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of Oleanz. It should be used with caution and monitored closely in the elderly.

Does Oleanz cause restless legs?

Yes, Oleanz can cause restless legs. Taking hot baths or massage may help to reduce the symptoms.

Can I stop taking Oleanz suddenly?

No, Oleanz should not be stopped suddenly as it can cause withdrawal symptoms such as nausea and dizziness. The dose should be gradually tapered off.

Can Oleanz be used with other medications?

Yes, Oleanz can be used with other medications. It is important to tell the doctor about all medications being taken before starting Oleanz.

What are the risk factors of Oleanz?

The risk factors of Oleanz include the risk of weight gain and abnormal movements of the face and body.