Zyprexa is used mainly to treat schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder , including manic or mixed episodes, and it can also help prevent symptoms from coming back in some people. It’s sometimes used with fluoxetine for certain depressive episodes, and in injection form it can be used for acute agitation when oral treatment is not appropriate.

What it treats

  • Schizophrenia, to reduce symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.
  • Bipolar I disorder, especially mania or mixed episodes, and maintenance treatment in some cases.
  • Acute agitation related to schizophrenia or bipolar mania, when given as an injection.

How it works

Zyprexa is an atypical antipsychotic that affects dopamine and serotonin signaling in the brain, which helps stabilize mood, thoughts, and behavior.

Important note

It should only be used under a clinician’s guidance because it can cause significant side effects, including weight gain and metabolic changes.