Lybalvi

Older adults with dementia might sometimes experience symptoms similar to schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions. This condition is known as dementia-related psychosis, and it should not be treated with Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan). Research suggests that taking antipsychotic medications to manage dementia-related psychosis increases the risk of life-threatening complications, including heart problems, stroke, and infections. Let your prescriber know if you or your loved one has dementia before starting Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan).

Lybalvi contains samidorphan, which is a medication that blocks the effect of opioid medications like oxycodone (Roxicodone), Percocet (oxycodone / acetaminophen), and Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen. Taking Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) can cause opioid withdrawal in people who are physically dependent on opioids. This can cause symptoms such as restlessness, anxiety, teary eyes, frequent yawning, widened pupils, runny nose, vomiting, and seizures. Because of this risk, you shouldn't take Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) if you are currently taking opioid medications or if you've recently stopped taking opioids and are undergoing opioid withdrawal. Depending on the opioid you were taking, you should wait at least 7 to 14 days between stopping an opioid and starting Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan).

Lybalvi contains samidorphan, a medication that reverses the effects of opioids. Taking high or repeated doses of opioid medications to try to counteract the effect of samidorphan can lead to life-threatening opioid overdose, especially if you've recently missed doses or stopped taking Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan). Signs of an overdose include extremely slowed breathing, excessive sleepiness, and even death. If you were previously taking opioids and plan to restart them after taking Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan), your tolerance might be lower than it was, meaning continuing opioids at your previous dose can raise your risk of an overdose. Follow your prescriber's instructions for how to restart opioids.

Although rare, Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) can cause serious skin reactions, such as Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS). If you notice changes in your skin (e.g., rash, blisters, swollen lymph nodes, skin reddening, skin peeling) or experience swelling in your face or trouble breathing, stop using Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) and get medical attention right away.

Taking antipsychotic medications like Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) can cause a rare, but life-threatening condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Some symptoms include fever, sweating, stiff muscles, confusion, not aware of your surroundings, and fast or irregular heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan), get medication attention as soon as possible. Your prescriber will likely have you stop taking Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) and switch you to something else.

Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) can raise your blood sugar and cholesterol levels as well as raise your appetite, all of which can lead to weight gain. Your prescriber will likely order blood tests regularly throughout treatment with Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) to make sure your blood sugar and cholesterol aren't too high. Make sure to have a balanced diet low in fat and sugar and maintain a regular exercise routine while taking Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan).

Taking antipsychotic medications like Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) can cause uncontrolled body movements (tardive dyskinesia), such as eye-twitching or lip-smacking. This is more likely to happen the longer you take medications like Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan). This can become permanent if it's not caught in time. If you experience any uncontrolled movements and aren't able to stop them, talk to your healthcare professional right away.

Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) can make you tired, lower your blood pressure, or cause you to lose your balance, which can lead to falls. The risk is higher when you first start this medication or whenever your prescriber raises the dose. When standing from a sitting or lying position, make sure to get up slowly and hold onto something. If you experience a fall while taking Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan), contact your healthcare professional.

Though rare, Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) can lower your white blood cell counts (WBCs) and put you at risk for developing infections. If you already have low WBC levels, your care team will order blood tests regularly during the first few months of treatment to check if your WBC levels are within a safe range. If your WBC count drops too low, you'll likely need to stop taking Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan). If you develop any signs of infection, such as fever, tiredness, chills, cough, or trouble breathing, and they don't go away, contact your healthcare professional right away.

Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) can potentially cause seizures. Before starting this medication, let your healthcare professional know if you have a history of seizures or have a medical condition that puts you at risk for getting seizures.

Antipsychotics like olanzapine in Lybalvi can raise the levels of a hormone called prolactin in your body. The risk is higher if you take this medication over a longer period of time. High prolactin levels might lead to fertility problems, enlarged male breasts, sexual problems, absence or irregular menstrual periods, and weak bones. Your healthcare professional might order blood work to check your prolactin levels when you're taking Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan). Talk with your healthcare team if you're concerned about problems linked to higher prolactin levels.

Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan) can cause extreme sleepiness and lower your ability to think, react, and focus. Your risk is higher if you're also taking other medications that can cause drowsiness, such as benzodiazepines, anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, and sleep medications. Make sure you know how this medication affects you before driving a car or doing activities that require your concentration. Talk to your healthcare professional right away if you feel too sleepy from taking Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan).

Olanzapine in Lybalvi might cause anticholinergic side effects, including trouble urinating, constipation, and bowel movement problems. The risk of these side effects are higher if you're taking other anticholinergic medications, such as certain ones for treating overactive bladder or motion sickness. Before starting Lybalvi (olanzapine / samidorphan), ask your healthcare team to help you check for medication interactions.