1. Drugs
  2. Olanzapine-Fluoxetine Hcl

Olanzapine-Fluoxetine Hcl

Olanzapine/Fluoxetine Hcl

What is Olanzapine-Fluoxetine Hcl used for?

This combination medication is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as depression associated with bipolar disorder). It is also used to treat depression that has not responded to other medications. Olanzapine belongs to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics. Fluoxetine belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Olanzapine/fluoxetine works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances (such as serotonin) in the brain.

CHEMICAL NAME

Olanzapine/Fluoxetine Hcl (oh-LAN-za-peen/floo-OX-e-teen)

Olanzapine-Fluoxetine Hcl Frequently Asked Questions

Before taking olanzapine/fluoxetine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to olanzapine or fluoxetine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: bleeding problems, personal or family history of suicide attempts, breast cancer, stomach/intestinal problems (such as blockage, chronic constipation, paralytic ileus), kidney disease, liver problems, low blood pressure, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, glaucoma (narrow angle), difficulty urinating (for example, due to enlarged prostate), seizures, brain problems (such as dementia, stroke), dehydration, low white blood cell count, personal or family history of diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol/triglyceride levels, breathing trouble during sleep (sleep apnea).

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

This medication can make it harder to control your body temperature. Avoid activities that might cause you to overheat (such as doing strenuous work, exercising in hot weather, or using hot tubs). Drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated.

Teenagers may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially weight gain, and also increased amounts of cholesterol, triglycerides and prolactin.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially bleeding, drowsiness, constipation, trouble urinating, confusion, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Older adults may also be more likely to develop low sodium in the blood, especially if they are taking "water pills" (diuretics). Drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, and lightheadedness can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Babies born to mothers who have used this drug during the last 3 months of pregnancy may rarely develop symptoms including muscle stiffness or shakiness, drowsiness, feeding/breathing difficulties, or constant crying. If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn especially during their first month, tell the doctor right away.

Since untreated mental/mood problems (such as depression, bipolar disorder) can be a serious condition, do not stop taking this medication unless directed by your doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, immediately discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.

This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Tell the doctor right away if your baby develops symptoms such as muscle stiffness or shakiness, unusual sleepiness, or difficulty feeding. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.