Key takeaways
Cariprazine (Vraylar) and olanzapine (Zyprexa) are both atypical antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Cariprazine is also used as an add-on for major depressive disorder (MDD), while olanzapine can be combined with fluoxetine (Prozac) for treatment-resistant depression. Cariprazine is taken orally once a day and is only available as a brand-name medication, whereas olanzapine is available in both oral and injectable forms and has a generic version. Cariprazine is less likely to cause weight gain compared to olanzapine, which is known for causing significant weight gain. Common side effects of cariprazine include uncontrolled muscle movements and restlessness. Common olanzapine side effects include sleepiness and dizziness. Both medications can lead to serious conditions like neuroleptic malignant syndrome and high blood sugar.
