Advice

Recommended for restricted use within NHS Scotland.

RECOMMENDATION.

Olanzapine is the first atypical antipsychotic to be licensed for the treatment of acute mania and is at least as effective as comparator treatments. It was associated with fewer extrapyramidal side effects than haloperidol and was similar to placebo in the rate of Parkinson-like effects. The management of mania is complex due to the variable presentation of the condition, the wide range of treatment options and a lack of clear guidance on their optimum use.

The use of olanzapine in the treatment of acute mania should be restricted to patients under the overall supervision of clinicians experienced in managing this complex disorder.

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Medicine details

Medicine name:
olanzapine (Zyprexa)
SMC ID:
44/03
Indication:
Moderate to severe manic episodes
Pharmaceutical company
Eli Lilly and Company Ltd
BNF chapter
Central nervous system
Submission type
Full
Status
Restricted
Date advice published
06 June 2003