Patient/caregiver was educated on the side effects of using Olanzapine as follows:
Gastrointestinal side effects
- Olanzapine use can result in common general constitutional symptoms such as, nausea and vomiting. Taking dose of olanzapine with a glass of water, after having some food or a snack can help avoid having unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms with the medication.
- Olanzapine can also induce extreme dry mouth and constipation. Sucking on a sugar free hard candy can help with symptomatic relief of dry mouth. Proper hydration measures and compliance with daily fluid intake recommendations can help with relief from constipation. If you experience any further bothersome constipation, report it to your physician for a recommendation on laxative/stool softener use. Observing compliance with fiber intake recommendations in the diet can also help with preventing episodes of constipation with the medication.
Sexual side effects
- Olanzapine intake carries the risk of increasing the levels of hormone prolactin in the body. Elevated prolactin levels in males can result in erectile dysfunction, reduced interest for sex, and growth of breast tissue.
- Elevated prolactin levels in females can result in menstrual irregularities with abnormal/missed period, infertility, breast enlargement and tenderness, and increased breast milk production without being pregnant.
