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Oral olanzapine: a guide to its use in adults with schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder

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Abstract

Olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic, is a well-established option for the first-line treatment of schizophrenia, and as first-line or adjunctive therapy in the acute or preventative treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. The use of olanzapine is associated with better or similar efficacy than other commonly used antipsychotics, which may result in lower rates of treatment discontinuation. Treatment may generally be initiated at therapeutic dosages. Relative to other antipsychotics, olanzapine has a lower risk of extrapyramidal symptoms, but a greater risk of weight gain.

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Acknowledgement

The manuscript was reviewed by R. Janknegt, Orbis Medical Centre, Sittard-Geleen, The Netherlands.

Disclosure

The preparation of this article was not supported by any external funding. During the review process, the manufacturer of the agent under review will be offered an opportunity to comment on the articles. Changes resulting from comments received will be made by the author on the basis of scientific and editorial merit.

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Correspondence to Katherine A. Lyseng-Williamson.

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Lyseng-Williamson, K.A. Oral olanzapine: a guide to its use in adults with schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder. Drugs Ther Perspect 29, 291–296 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40267-013-0074-4

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