Olanzapine is used to treat the symptoms associated with psychotic disorders, especially schizophrenia.
Safetychecker Summary
for Olanzapine
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)
 Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements
when taking this medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous
results. |
Alcohol Smoking |
| Depletion or interference |
None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known |
| Supportive interaction |
None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability |
None known |
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Smoking
Cigarette smoking increases the elimination of olanzapine from the body.1 This
interaction becomes a problem when an individual who has been taking olanzapine voluntarily
starts or quits smoking. People who start smoking while taking olanzapine may experience
increased disease symptoms, while those who stop smoking while taking the drug may experience
increased side effects. Individuals who change their smoking habits while on olanzapine should
notify their doctor.
Alcohol
Ingestion of alcohol may decrease blood levels of olanzapine by stimulating the liver to break
down the drug.2 Consequently, individuals who begin using alcohol while taking
olanzapine may experience increased disease symptoms due to the reduced effectiveness of the
drug. In addition, people who take antipsychotic agents such as olanzapine should avoid
alcohol because it may intensify the effects of the drug on the nervous system and may cause
low blood pressure.3
References:
1. Ereshefsky L. Pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic considerations in choosing an antipsychotic. J Clin Psychiatry 1999;60(Suppl 10):20–30.
2. Ereshefsky L. Pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic considerations in choosing an antipsychotic. J Clin Psychiatry 1999;60(Suppl 10):20–30.
3. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Antipsychotic Agents. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparison, 1999, 1693.
Copyright © 2002 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved. www.healthnotes.com
Please read the disclaimer about the limitations of the information provided here. Do NOT rely solely on the information in this article.
Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.
Learn more about the authors of Safetychecker.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2003.