olanzapine (Zyprexa)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if an antipsychotic medication like olanzapine (Zyprexa) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
schizophrenia, bipolar disorder

Medication Hero image
insurance plans logos

360+ insurance plans accepted

Check my coverage

How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find the right provider

    Browse providers online or call us and we’ll help you find someone who accepts your insurance and fits your needs. Pick a time that works for you and choose how you’d like to pay.

  • 2

    Get started with treatment

    At your first session, share what you’re experiencing and what you’re hoping to get out of treatment. Together, you’ll discuss your options—including whether medication might be a good fit. If so, your provider can send a prescription directly to your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Track your progress

    Your provider will check in regularly to make sure your treatment plan is working for you and adjust as needed.

What is an antipsychotic?

Antipsychotics are a class of medication that is primarily used to treat symptoms of psychosis, like hearing and seeing things that other people do not, feeling paranoid, or having delusions.

How does an antipsychotic work?

Antipsychotics work by blocking dopamine in the brain, which helps reduce the frequency and severity of psychotic symptoms.

drug image

FAQs about olanzapine (Zyprexa)

What is olanzapine (Zyprexa) used to treat?

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia, manic and mixed episodes with bipolar disorder, depression with bipolar disorder, and depression. Olanzapine may also be used off-label, or outside of t's approved uses, to treat other conditions.

Is olanzapine (Zyprexa) a controlled substance?

No, olanzapine is not a controlled substance, since it is not considered habit-forming and doesn't cause addiction. If you have any questions about the side effects of olanzapine, ask your provider about your concerns.

Does olanzapine (Zyprexa) make you sleepy?

Yes, sleepiness and tiredness are common side effects of olanzapine. You may experience sleepiness when you first begin treatment with olanzapine. If you experience excessive sleepiness with olanzapine treatment, contact your provider so you may discuss ways for you to manage this side effect. Don't drive or operate machinery until you know how olanzapine affects you.

Does olanzapine (Zyprexa) cause weight gain?

Yes, weight gain can be a side effect of olanzapine, as well as increased appetite. If you're concerned about weight gain with olanzapine treatment, talk with your provider. They can discuss the issue with you and find ways for you to manage a healthy weight.

How long does it take for olanzapine (Zyprexa) to work?

How long it takes olanzapine to start working depends on several factors, including the form of the medication you're prescribed, your dosage, the severity of your condition, and how you respond to treatment with olanzapine. Injectable dosage forms of olanzapine (Zyprexa) work faster than oral forms taken by mouth. It may take a few weeks to months before you notice a distinct improvement in your symptoms. Your provider may also start you on a low dose and slowly increase it in order to see how you respond to olanzapine. Talk with your provider if you have questions about how long it may take the medication to start working for you.

Can olanzapine (Zyprexa) treat anxiety?

Olanzapine is not approved to treat anxiety, and is typically not used to treat it due to the risk of serious side effects. However, if you have symptoms of anxiety along with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or depression, olanzapine may help. Talk with your provider if you have questions about olanzapine's effectiveness for anxiety disorders.

How long does olanzapine (Zyprexa) stay in system?

How long olanzapine stays in your system depends on the form of medication you're prescribed (oral or injection) as well as other factors, such as how well your liver and kidneys are working. The half-life of olanzapine ranges from 21 to 54 hours. This means it takes around one to three days for half the drug to leave your body. Your provider or pharmacist can give you more details about how long your dosage form of olanzapine may stay in your body.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Is Thriveworks LegitScript certified?

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published October 3, 2024
Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

  • https://thriveworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Layer_1.svg

    988

    If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health or substance, use crisis, dial 988 to call the 24/7 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

  • https://thriveworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Layer_1.svg

    741-741

    Text HOME to 741741 for free, confidential support from a volunteer crisis counselor with the Crisis Text Line.

  • https://thriveworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Layer_1_606b35.svg

    911

    If you’re having a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 or go to your local ER.

Find a provider ...