ABBOTT OLANZAPINE ODT, 20MG, DESINT. TAB.

Common uses

This medication is typically used for certain mental disorders (psychosis). It may also be used for bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness), to assist in the treatment of depression, as well as for other uses. It requires several days to take effect.

How to use this medication

Avoid touching the tablet or take it with dry hands. Place the tablet on your tongue and allow it to melt. Then swallow it with your saliva.

This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Take it regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects.

Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. It is not advisable to stop using this product suddenly, particularly if you have been on it for several weeks. If you are considering stopping the medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist first.

This medication may be taken with or without food. This product may intensify the effect of alcohol. Limit alcohol consumption to an occasional intake.

Possible side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

• it may cause constipation -- to prevent this, drink plenty of water or juice, and eat more dietary fibre;
• it may cause dizziness -- use caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position;
• it may cause headaches;
• it may cause either drowsiness or excitability -- use caution until you know how you will react;
• it may cause weight gain, mostly with prolonged use.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your doctor or pharmacist. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of young children. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.

Additional information

This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.

General information

It is important to tell the health professionals you consult:

• if you have a history of any other medical condition, whether you smoke and for women, if you are or want to become pregnant or breastfeeding;
• if you have allergies to any medications or any other allergies (e.g. to food, latex, etc.);
• all medications you are taking, prescription and non-prescription, including vitamins and natural products and supplements.