1. Balance Your Brain's Chemicals
Zyprexa, an atypical anti-psychotic drug, relieves symptoms associated with psychotic disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disease. While it can take several weeks before you notice a difference, Zyprexa helps with symptoms that include hallucinations, delusions, voices in the head, sleep disturbances, racing thoughts and anxiety. These symptoms are caused by a chemical imbalance in your brain, which Zyprexa rebalances. For the best results, take Zyprexa at the same time every day. You may want to associate taking the medication with another daily activity, like brushing your teeth in the morning, to help establish the routine of taking Zyprexa.
2. The Downside of Zyprexa
Like most prescription medication, Zyprexa comes with the potential to cause negative side effects. Drowsiness, weakness, increased appetite that leads to weight gain, tremors, constipation, dizziness, dry mouth and restlessness are symptoms most people gladly risk for the benefits of Zyprexa. More serious Zyprexa side effects include strokes or ministrokes, high blood sugar, the development of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and tardive dyskinesia, which causes movements you can't control in your face and tongue. Elderly people with dementia should not take Zyprexa since tests show the drug increases the risk of death under these conditions. Always tell your doctor if you experience a side effect.
3. Don't Go Cold Turkey Over Warm Fuzzy Feelings
Many people reach a state of happiness and decide they no longer need to take medication. Zyprexa makes you feel good, and feelings of happiness indicate the medication is working. For it to keep working, you must continue to take it at the recommended dose. If you truly believe you no longer need the medication, talk with your doctor and wean off Zyprexa. A support group of friends and family along with individual or group therapy can also contribute to feelings of well-being.
4. Mistakes Can Be Deadly
Eli Lilly, the United States manufacturer for Zyprexa, provides clearly labeled packaging to indicate the increased risk of developing diabetes and hyperglycemia. Your medical history plays an important role in whether you are at more risk than other consumers. Human error adds to Zyprexa risk. Pharmacists may make mistakes and give consumers the wrong medication. Always double-check your package to ensure you receive the right medication. Check the spelling of Zyprexa and also examine the tablets. If they don't look right, return them to your pharmacist.
5. Seek Alternatives
There are alternatives to taking Zyprexa, and each one offers pros and cons. The main pro to any anti-psychotic drug is the relief of symptoms. Traditional anti-psychotic medications include Thorazine, Prolixin, Haldol, Navane, Stelazine, Trilafin and Mellaril. While they are not as effective as Zyprexa, some consumers prefer the risks and benefits associated with traditional medications. One alternative, Clozaril, may cause serious immune issues related to agranulocytosis, where you don't develop enough white blood cells. Some physicians feel Risperdal, Seroquel, Geodon and Abilify are safer than Zyprexa.
