Zyprexa is not your typical antipsychotic. Although prescribed to treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia in children and adults ages 10 and older, it is not known exactly how this medication works. In some cases, it is used in combination with fluoxetine, another anyipsyhcotic. However this is only done when two other medications have been unsuccessful at relieving psychotic symptoms. Zyprexa, like most medications, does have some side effects.
Most Common Side Effects
The most common side effects of Zyprexa are thought to be its less harmful ones, posing no real danger to the health of the patients who take it. Once the body has become acclimated to it, these side effects generally subside. It is normal to experience drowsiness, increased appetite and weakness, along with fatigue, constipation and heartburn. Patients may also suffer from dry mouth and bouts of dizziness in the early stages of their treatment. If these side effects persist or worsen, you should contact your prescribing physician. The medication dose may need to be adjusted, or you may need another medication.
Weight Gain
Dr. Arthur Schoenstadt of eMedTV states that more than 22 percent of adults and 7 percent of adolescents experienced weight gain during clinical testing of Zyprexa. According to Dr. Schoenstadt, a weight gain of 20 lbs. or less is typical during treatment and can be combated by eating more fruits and vegetables, lowering saturated fat intake and participating in 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking, most days of the week.
Some patients, however, may experience a large and rapid weight gain once they begin taking Zyprexa. This can increase the risk of developing diabetes along with other serious medical conditions and should therefore be brought to the attention of the doctor who prescribed the medication.
Insomnia
Insomnia appears to be another problem for patients taking Zyprexa, affecting 12 percent of those who participated in the clinical study of this medication. Insomnia can affect one in a variety of ways; difficulty falling asleep is the most common, while waking up earlier than usual is another sign of this condition. Patients may also wake up frequently throughout the night and find it hard to go back to sleep. In some cases, people may sleep through the night, but due to not falling into a deep sleep, they awaken feeling as if they didn't sleep at all. The doctor may be able to help with this side effect once he is aware it is occurring.
Diabetes
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Zyprexa is contra-indicated for people who are at risk for diabetes. Drugs.com states that if you have a family history of diabetes, you may need special tests to take this medication. However, weight gain is a common side effect of Zyprexa and is also a risk factor for diabetes. Therefore, patients need to be aware of the symptoms of diabetes to ensure their safety while taking this drug. These signs include but are not limited to increased thirst or hunger, and increased urination.
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