Olanzapine precautions

List of precautions
General Orthostatic Hypotension Interference with Cognitive and Motor Performance Pregnancy/Pregnancy Nursing Alcohol

General
Olanzapine may induce orthostatic hypotension associated with dizziness, tachycardia, and in some patients, syncope, especially during the initial dose-titration period, probably reflecting its α1-adrenergic antagonistic properties. Syncope was reported in 0.6% (15/2500) of olanzapine-treated patients in phase 2-3 studies. The risk of orthostatic hypotension and syncope may be minimized by initiating therapy with 5 mg QD. A more gradual titration to the target dose should be considered if hypotension occurs. Olanzapine should be used with particular caution in patients with known cardiovascular disease (history of myocardial infarction or ischemia, heart failure, or conduction abnormalities), cerebrovascular disease, and conditions which would predispose patients to hypotension (dehydration, hypovolemia, and treatment with antihypertensive medications). Return to top

Orthostatic Hypotension
Patients should be advised of the risk of orthostatic hypotension, especially during the period of initial dose titration and in association with the use of concomitant drugs that may potentiate the orthostatic effect of olanzapine, e.g., diazepam or alcohol. Return to top

Interference with Cognitive and Motor Performance
Because olanzapine has the potential to impair judgment,thinking, or motor skills, patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles, until they are reasonably certain that olanzapine therapy does not affect them adversely. Return to top

Pregnancy
Patients should be advised to notify their physician if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during therapy with olanzapine. Return to top

Nursing
Patients should be advised not to breast-feed an infant if they are taking olanzapine. Concomitant Medication — Patients should be advised to inform their physicians if they are taking, or plan to take, any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, since there is a potential for interactions. Return to top

Alcohol
Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol while taking olanzapine. Heat Exposure and Dehydration — Patients should be advised regarding appropriate care in avoiding overheating and dehydration. Return to top