Zyprexa Relprevv

Though rare, there has been reports of people experiencing extreme sleepiness (sedation), coma, and confusion (delirium) after getting Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine). This is called post-injection delirium/sedation syndrome and it can be life-threatening. Because of this risk, you, your provider, the clinic where you get treatment, and the pharmacy that delivers Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) to your clinic, must all be enrolled in a special program called the Zyprexa Relprevv Patient Care Program. After your injection, you'll be monitored for at least 3 hours at the clinic for symptoms. If needed, you'll be able to get medical attention right away.

Older adults who also have dementia sometimes have some of the symptoms of schizophrenia, like hallucinations and delusions. This is called dementia-related psychosis, and it shouldn't be treated with Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine). Older people with dementia-related psychosis have a high risk of death if they take medications like Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine). Because of this risk, Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) shouldn't be used in people 65 years and older with dementia-related psychosis. Let your provider know if you or your loved one has dementia before starting Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine).

Having schizophrenia can put people at risk for self-harm or suicidal thoughts. If you or anyone around you notice that you have suicidal thoughts or behavior, get medical help right away.

Although rare, Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) 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, get medical attention right away.

Taking antipsychotic medications like Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) can cause a rare, but life-threatening condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). 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 Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine), get medical attention as soon as possible. Your provider will likely have you stop taking Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) and switch you to something else.

Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) can raise your blood sugar levels. Rarely, it can reach dangerous levels resulting in coma or death. Let your provider know if you have symptoms of high blood sugar, such as feeling very hungry or thirsty, urinating more often, stomach pain, weakness, or fruity-smelling breath.

Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) can cause uncontrolled and possibly permanent muscle movements in the tongue, face, mouth, lips, neck, hands, arms, legs, and feet (tardive dyskinesia). To lower your risk of tardive dyskinesia, your provider will have you take the lowest dose that treats your symptoms. Get medical help right away if you notice any unusual movements you can't control. This side effect can sometimes occur even after you stop the medication.

Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) can make you tired, lower your blood pressure, or cause you to lose your balance, which can lead to falls. 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 Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine), contact your provider.

Though rare, Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) can lower your white blood cell counts (WBCs) and put you at risk for developing infections. You'll need to get blood tests done regularly during the first few months of taking Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) so your provider can make sure your WBCs are in a safe range. If your WBC count drops too low, you'll likely need to stop taking Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine). If you develop any signs of infection, such as fever, tiredness, chills, cough, or trouble breathing, and they don't go away, contact your provider right away.

Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) can potentially cause seizures. Before starting this medication, let your provider know if you have a history of seizures or have a medical condition that puts you at risk for getting seizures.

Antipsychotics like Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) can raise the levels of prolactin in your body. High prolactin can lead to fertility problems, enlarged male breasts, sexual dysfunction, absence or irregular menstrual periods, and weak bones. Your provider will likely measure your prolactin levels during treatment to make sure they aren't too high.

Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) 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 provider right away if you feel too sleepy from taking Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine).

Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine) can cause anticholinergic problems, such as constipation, dry mouth, and fast heart rate. The risk for these side effects is higher if you're also taking other anticholinergic medications.