Olanzapine
(Zyprexa, ZypAhera, Olanzapine)
Available as tablets or capsules.
Tablets and orodispersible tablets
Available as soluble tablets?
Yes (orodispersible tablets can be dispersed in water, orange/apple juice, milk or coffee)
Available as a liquid?
Yes - unlicensed
Available as something for placing under your tongue?
Yes available as orodispersible tablets.
Available as something for placing on your gum?
Yes available as orodispersible tablets.
Available as granules?
No
Available as a patch for putting on your skin?
No
Available as an injection?
Yes
Available as nasal/oral spray?
No
Safe or appropriate to crush
Licensed alternative formulations available and therefore crushing is not recommended.
Additional information for Healthcare Professionals+
Generic name
Olanzapine
Usual formulation brand names
Zyprexa, ZypAhera
Is tablet/capsule specially coated?
No
Modified release
No
Film coated
Yes
Enteric coated
No
Sugar coated
No
Soluble tablet strength
-
Sublingual/buccal formulation strength
5mg, 10mg, 15mg, & 20mg
Granule strength
-
Transdermal patch strength
-
Injection strength
210mg, 300mg & 405mg powder and solvent for prolonged release suspension for injection
Nasal/oral spray Strength
-
Available as a licensed liquid or special?
Special - oral suspension
Are specials or imports available?
On Specials Tariff
Liquid strengths
2.5mg/5ml - special
Is the liquid medicine sugar free?
Yes - check with manufacturer
Licensed for administration via enteral tube
No
Advice on administration via enteral tube
No information available for tablet formulation. Current resources suggest that it is likely to be safe to administer via enteral feeding tubes, however this is an unlicensed use of the medication. Clinicians should refer to specialist resources for advice on how to administer this medication via enteral feeding tubes.
Notes
Disperse in water immediately prior to administration. This medicine can be irritant to the skin and eyes – take precautions to avoid contact.