Olanzapine

IM Olanzapine

May 20, 2002
Medication for Schizophrenia

May 20, 2002 (Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Doctors are searching for a fast-acting injectable medication to use on agitated schizophrenia patients. A study in the current issue of the Archives of General Psychiatry reports on a safe and effective one.

Patients with schizophrenia often exhibit agitation, which can escalate into destructive and violent behavior. At that point, medical personnel could benefit from an injectable medication to give to the patient to protect themselves and others from their violence. Many of the medications already available have severe side effects. This study looked at a range of dosages of intramuscular olanzapine.

Patients could receive a maximum of three injections within a 24-hour period. The study investigators observed the patients and rated each patient's level of agitation. The most frequently reported side effect was low blood pressure, but it was the same with the medication and the placebo.

It appears that IM olanzapine acts more quickly than other medications and lasts longer. Overall, the researchers say IM olanzapine is a safe and effective alternative to oral medications.

Unrelated research shows IM olanzapine is also effective in treating agitation in dementia patients. Eli Lilly and Company, the makers of the drug, sponsored the research.

SOURCE: Archives of General Psychiatry,
2002;59:441-448

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