Monotherapy — Oral olanzapine is indicated for the acute treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder and maintenance treatment of bipolar I disorder. Efficacy was established in three clinical trials in adult patients with manic or mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder: two 3- to 4-week trials and one monotherapy maintenance trial. In adolescent patients with manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder (ages 13 years to 17 years), efficacy was established in one 3-week trial
[see Clinical Studies (
14.2)]
.
When deciding among the alternative treatments available for adolescents, clinicians should consider the increased potential (in adolescents as compared with adults) for weight gain and dyslipidemia. Clinicians should consider the potential long-term risks when prescribing to adolescents, and in many cases this may lead them to consider prescribing other drugs first in adolescents
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.5)]
.
Adjunctive Therapy to Lithium or Valproate — Oral olanzapine is indicated for the treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder as an adjunct to lithium or valproate. Efficacy was established in two 6-week clinical trials in adults. The effectiveness of adjunctive therapy for longer-term use has not been systematically evaluated in controlled trials
[see Clinical Studies (
14.2)]
.
Adults
Dose Selection — Oral olanzapine should be administered on a once-a-day schedule without regard to meals, generally beginning with 5 to 10 mg initially, with a target dose of 10 mg/day within several days. Further dosage adjustments, if indicated, should generally occur at intervals of not less than 1 week, since steady state for olanzapine would not be achieved for approximately 1 week in the typical patient. When dosage adjustments are necessary, dose increments/decrements of 5 mg once daily are recommended.
Efficacy in schizophrenia was demonstrated in a dose range of 10 to 15 mg/day in clinical trials. However, doses above 10 mg/day were not demonstrated to be more efficacious than the 10 mg/day dose. An increase to a dose greater than the target dose of 10 mg/day (i.e., to a dose of 15 mg/day or greater) is recommended only after clinical assessment. Olanzapine is not indicated for use in doses above 20 mg/day.
Dosing in Special Populations — The recommended starting dose is 5 mg in patients who are debilitated, who have a predisposition to hypotensive reactions, who otherwise exhibit a combination of factors that may result in slower metabolism of olanzapine (e.g., nonsmoking female patients ≥ 65 years of age), or who may be more pharmacodynamically sensitive to olanzapine
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.14), Drug Interactions (
7), and Clinical Pharmacology (
12.3)]
. When indicated, dose escalation should be performed with caution in these patients.
Maintenance Treatment — The effectiveness of oral olanzapine, 10 mg/day to 20 mg/day, in maintaining treatment response in schizophrenic patients who had been stable on olanzapine for approximately 8 weeks and were then followed for relapse has been demonstrated in a placebo-controlled trial
[see Clinical Studies (
14.1)]
. The healthcare provider who elects to use olanzapine for extended periods should periodically reevaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient.
Adolescents
Dose Selection — Oral olanzapine should be administered on a once-a-day schedule without regard to meals with a recommended starting dose of 2.5 or 5 mg, with a target dose of 10 mg/day. Efficacy in adolescents with schizophrenia was demonstrated based on a flexible dose range of 2.5 to 20 mg/day in clinical trials, with a mean modal dose of 12.5 mg/day (mean dose of 11.1 mg/day). When dosage adjustments are necessary, dose increments/decrements of 2.5 or 5 mg are recommended.
The safety and effectiveness of doses above 20 mg/day have not been evaluated in clinical trials
[see Clinical Studies (
14.1)]
.
Maintenance Treatment — The efficacy of olanzapine for the maintenance treatment of schizophrenia in the adolescent population has not been systematically evaluated; however, maintenance efficacy can be extrapolated from adult data along with comparisons of olanzapine pharmacokinetic parameters in adult and adolescent patients. Thus, it is generally recommended that responding patients be continued beyond the acute response, but at the lowest dose needed to maintain remission. Patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for maintenance treatment.
Adults
Dose Selection for Monotherapy — Oral olanzapine should be administered on a once-a-day schedule without regard to meals, generally beginning with 10 or 15 mg. Dosage adjustments, if indicated, should generally occur at intervals of not less than 24 hours, reflecting the procedures in the placebo-controlled trials. When dosage adjustments are necessary, dose increments/decrements of 5 mg once daily are recommended.
Short-term (3 weeks to 4 weeks) antimanic efficacy was demonstrated in a dose range of 5 mg to 20 mg/day in clinical trials. The safety of doses above 20 mg/day has not been evaluated in clinical trials
[see Clinical Studies (
14.2)]
.
Maintenance Monotherapy — The benefit of maintaining bipolar I patients on monotherapy with oral olanzapine at a dose of 5 to 20 mg/day, after achieving a responder status for an average duration of 2 weeks, was demonstrated in a controlled trial
[see Clinical Studies (
14.2)]
. The healthcare provider who elects to use olanzapine for extended periods should periodically reevaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient.
Dose Selection for Adjunctive Treatment — When administered as adjunctive treatment to lithium or valproate, oral olanzapine dosing should generally begin with 10 mg once-a-day without regard to meals.
Antimanic efficacy was demonstrated in a dose range of 5 mg to 20 mg/day in clinical trials
[see Clinical Studies (
14.2)]
. The safety of doses above 20 mg/day has not been evaluated in clinical trials.
Adolescents
Dose Selection — Oral olanzapine should be administered on a once-a-day schedule without regard to meals with a recommended starting dose of 2.5 or 5 mg, with a target dose of 10 mg/day. Efficacy in adolescents with bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes) was demonstrated based on a flexible dose range of 2.5 to 20 mg/day in clinical trials, with a mean modal dose of 10.7 mg/day (mean dose of 8.9 mg/day). When dosage adjustments are necessary, dose increments/decrements of 2.5 or 5 mg are recommended.
The safety and effectiveness of doses above 20 mg/day have not been evaluated in clinical trials
[see Clinical Studies (
14.2)]
.
Maintenance Treatment — The efficacy of olanzapine for the maintenance treatment of bipolar I disorder in the adolescent population has not been evaluated; however, maintenance efficacy can be extrapolated from adult data along with comparisons of olanzapine pharmacokinetic parameters in adult and adolescent patients. Thus, it is generally recommended that responding patients be continued beyond the acute response, but at the lowest dose needed to maintain remission. Patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for maintenance treatment.
Dose Selection for Agitated Adult Patients with Schizophrenia and Bipolar I Mania — The efficacy of intramuscular olanzapine for injection in controlling agitation in these disorders was demonstrated in a dose range of 2.5 mg to 10 mg. The recommended dose in these patients is 10 mg. A lower dose of 5 or 7.5 mg may be considered when clinical factors warrant
[see Clinical Studies (
14.3)]
. If agitation warranting additional intramuscular doses persists following the initial dose, subsequent doses up to 10 mg may be given. However, the efficacy of repeated doses of intramuscular olanzapine for injection in agitated patients has not been systematically evaluated in controlled clinical trials. Also, the safety of total daily doses greater than 30 mg, or 10 mg injections given more frequently than 2 hours after the initial dose, and 4 hours after the second dose have not been evaluated in clinical trials. Maximal dosing of intramuscular olanzapine (e.g., 3 doses of 10 mg administered 2-4 hours apart) may be associated with a substantial occurrence of significant orthostatic hypotension
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.7)]
. Thus, it is recommended that patients requiring subsequent intramuscular injections be assessed for orthostatic hypotension prior to the administration of any subsequent doses of intramuscular olanzapine for injection. The administration of an additional dose to a patient with a clinically significant postural change in systolic blood pressure is not recommended.
If ongoing olanzapine therapy is clinically indicated, oral olanzapine may be initiated in a range of 5-20 mg/day as soon as clinically appropriate
[see Dosage and Administration (
2.1,
2.2)]
.
Intramuscular Dosing in Special Populations — A dose of 5 mg/injection should be considered for geriatric patients or when other clinical factors warrant. A lower dose of 2.5 mg/injection should be considered for patients who otherwise might be debilitated, be predisposed to hypotensive reactions, or be more pharmacodynamically sensitive to olanzapine
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.14), Drug Interactions (
7), and Clinical Pharmacology (
12.3)]
.
Increased Mortality — Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. Olanzapine is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis
[see
Boxed Warning, Warnings and Use in Specific Populations (
8.5)), and Patient Counseling Information ( 17)].
In placebo-controlled clinical trials of elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, the incidence of death in olanzapine-treated patients was significantly greater than placebo-treated patients (3.5% vs 1.5%, respectively).
Cerebrovascular Adverse Events (CVAE), Including Stroke — Cerebrovascular adverse events (e.g., stroke, transient ischemic attack), including fatalities, were reported in patients in trials of olanzapine in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. In placebo-controlled trials, there was a significantly higher incidence of cerebrovascular adverse events in patients treated with olanzapine compared to patients treated with placebo. Olanzapine is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis
[see
Boxed Warning and Patient Counseling Information (
17.2)]
.
Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Mellitus
Healthcare providers should consider the risks and benefits when prescribing olanzapine to patients with an established diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, or having borderline increased blood glucose level (fasting 100 mg/dL to 126 mg/dL, nonfasting 140 mg/dL to 200 mg/dL). Patients taking olanzapine should be monitored regularly for worsening of glucose control. Patients starting treatment with olanzapine should undergo fasting blood glucose testing at the beginning of treatment and periodically during treatment. Any patient treated with atypical antipsychotics should be monitored for symptoms of hyperglycemia including polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and weakness. Patients who develop symptoms of hyperglycemia during treatment with atypical antipsychotics should undergo fasting blood glucose testing. In some cases, hyperglycemia has resolved when the atypical antipsychotic was discontinued; however, some patients required continuation of anti-diabetic treatment despite discontinuation of the suspect drug
[see Patient Counseling Information (
17)]
.
Hyperglycemia, in some cases extreme and associated with ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar coma or death, has been reported in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics including olanzapine. Assessment of the relationship between atypical antipsychotic use and glucose abnormalities is complicated by the possibility of an increased background risk of diabetes mellitus in patients with schizophrenia and the increasing incidence of diabetes mellitus in the general population. Epidemiological studies suggest an increased risk of treatment-emergent hyperglycemia-related adverse reactions in patients treated with the atypical antipsychotics. While relative risk estimates are inconsistent, the association between atypical antipsychotics and increases in glucose levels appears to fall on a continuum and olanzapine appears to have a greater association than some other atypical antipsychotics.
Mean increases in blood glucose have been observed in patients treated (median exposure of 9.2 months) with olanzapine in phase 1 of the Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE). The mean increase of serum glucose (fasting and nonfasting samples) from baseline to the average of the 2 highest serum concentrations was 15.0 mg/dL.
In a study of healthy volunteers, subjects who received olanzapine (N=22) for 3 weeks had a mean increase compared to baseline in fasting blood glucose of 2.3 mg/dL. Placebo-treated subjects (N=19) had a mean increase in fasting blood glucose compared to baseline of 0.34 mg/dL.
Olanzapine Monotherapy in Adults — In an analysis of 5 placebo-controlled adult olanzapine monotherapy studies with a median treatment duration of approximately 3 weeks, olanzapine was associated with a greater mean change in fasting glucose levels compared to placebo (2.76 mg/dL versus 0.17 mg/dL). The difference in mean changes between olanzapine and placebo was greater in patients with evidence of glucose dysregulation at baseline (patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus or related adverse reactions, patients treated with anti-diabetic agents, patients with a baseline random glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dL, and/or a baseline fasting glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL). Olanzapine-treated patients had a greater mean HbA
1c increase from baseline of 0.04% (median exposure 21 days), compared to a mean HbA
1c decrease of 0.06% in placebo-treated subjects (median exposure 17 days).
In an analysis of 8 placebo-controlled studies (median treatment exposure 4 weeks to 5 weeks), 6.1% of olanzapine-treated subjects (N=855) had treatment-emergent glycosuria compared to 2.8% of placebo-treated subjects (N=599).
Table 2 shows short-term and long-term changes in fasting glucose levels from adult olanzapine monotherapy studies.
Table 2: Changes in Fasting Glucose Levels from Adult Olanzapine Monotherapy Studies
|
|
| | | Up to 12 weeks exposure | At least 48 weeks exposure |
| Laboratory Analyte | Category Change (at least once)
from Baseline
| Treatment Arm | N | Patients | N | Patients |
Fasting
Glucose
| Normal to High
(< 100 mg/dL to ≥ 126 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 543
| 2.2%
| 345
| 12.8%
|
| Placebo
| 293
| 3.4%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Borderline to High
(≥ 100 mg/dL and < 126 mg/dL to ≥ 126 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 178
| 17.4%
| 127
| 26.0%
|
| Placebo
| 96
| 11.5%
| NA
a | NA
a |
The mean change in fasting glucose for patients exposed at least 48 weeks was 4.2 mg/dL (N=487). In analyses of patients who completed 9 months to 12 months of olanzapine therapy, mean change in fasting and nonfasting glucose levels continued to increase over time.
Olanzapine Monotherapy in Adolescents — The safety and efficacy of olanzapine have not been established in patients under the age of 13 years. In an analysis of 3 placebo-controlled olanzapine monotherapy studies of adolescent patients, including those with schizophrenia (6 weeks) or bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes) (3 weeks), olanzapine was associated with a greater mean change from baseline in fasting glucose levels compared to placebo (2.68 mg/dL versus -2.59 mg/dL). The mean change in fasting glucose for adolescents exposed at least 24 weeks was 3.1 mg/dL (N=121).
Table 3 shows short-term and long-term changes in fasting blood glucose from adolescent olanzapine monotherapy studies.
Table 3: Changes in Fasting Glucose Levels from Adolescent Olanzapine Monotherapy Studies
|
|
| | | Up to 12 weeks exposure | At least 24 weeks exposure |
| Laboratory Analyte | Category Change (at least once)
from Baseline
| Treatment Arm | N | Patients | N | Patients |
Fasting
Glucose
| Normal to High
(< 100 mg/dL to ≥ 126 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 124
| 0%
| 108
| 0.9%
|
| Placebo
| 53
| 1.9%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Borderline to High
(≥ 100 mg/dL and < 126 mg/dL to ≥ 126 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 14
| 14.3%
| 13
| 23.1%
|
| Placebo
| 13
| 0%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Dyslipidemia
Undesirable alterations in lipids have been observed with olanzapine use. Clinical monitoring, including baseline and periodic follow-up lipid evaluations in patients using olanzapine, is recommended
[see Patient Counseling Information (
17)]
.
Clinically significant, and sometimes very high (> 500 mg/dL), elevations in triglyceride levels have been observed with olanzapine use. Modest mean increases in total cholesterol have also been seen with olanzapine use.
Olanzapine Monotherapy in Adults — In an analysis of 5 placebo-controlled olanzapine monotherapy studies with treatment duration up to 12 weeks, olanzapine-treated patients had increases from baseline in mean fasting total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides of 5.3 mg/dL, 3.0 mg/dL, and 20.8 mg/dL respectively compared to decreases from baseline in mean fasting total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides of 6.1 mg/dL, 4.3 mg/dL, and 10.7 mg/dL for placebo-treated patients. For fasting HDL cholesterol, no clinically meaningful differences were observed between olanzapine-treated patients and placebo-treated patients. Mean increases in fasting lipid values (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides) were greater in patients without evidence of lipid dysregulation at baseline, where lipid dysregulation was defined as patients diagnosed with dyslipidemia or related adverse reactions, patients treated with lipid lowering agents, or patients with high baseline lipid levels.
In long-term studies (at least 48 weeks), patients had increases from baseline in mean fasting total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides of 5.6 mg/dL, 2.5 mg/dL, and 18.7 mg/dL, respectively, and a mean decrease in fasting HDL cholesterol of 0.16 mg/dL. In an analysis of patients who completed 12 months of therapy, the mean nonfasting total cholesterol did not increase further after approximately 4-6 months.
The proportion of patients who had changes (at least once) in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol or triglycerides from normal or borderline to high, or changes in HDL cholesterol from normal or borderline to low, was greater in long-term studies (at least 48 weeks) as compared with short-term studies.
Table 4 shows categorical changes in fasting lipids values.
Table 4: Changes in Fasting Lipids Values from Adult Olanzapine Monotherapy Studies
|
|
| | | Up to 12 weeks exposure | At least 48 weeks exposure |
| Laboratory Analyte | Category Change (at least once)
from Baseline
| Treatment Arm | N
| Patients
| N
| Patients
|
Fasting
Triglycerides
| Increase by ≥ 50 mg/dL
| Olanzapine
| 745
| 39.6%
| 487
| 61.4%
|
| Placebo
| 402
| 26.1%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Normal to High
(< 150 mg/dL to ≥ 200 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 457
| 9.2%
| 293
| 32.4%
|
| Placebo
| 251
| 4.4%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Borderline to High
(≥ 150 mg/dL and < 200 mg/dL to ≥ 200 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 135
| 39.3%
| 75
| 70.7%
|
| Placebo
| 65
| 20.0%
| NA
a | NA
a |
|
| | | | | | |
Fasting Total
Cholesterol
| Increase by ≥ 40 mg/dL
| Olanzapine
| 745
| 21.6%
| 489
| 32.9%
|
| Placebo
| 402
| 9.5%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Normal to High
(< 200 mg/dL to ≥ 240 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 392
| 2.8%
| 283
| 14.8%
|
| Placebo
| 207
| 2.4%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Borderline to High
(≥ 200 mg/dL and < 240 mg/dL to ≥ 240 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 222
| 23.0%
| 125
| 55.2%
|
| Placebo
| 112
| 12.5%
| NA
a | NA
a |
|
| | | | | | |
Fasting LDL
Cholesterol
| Increase by ≥ 30 mg/dL
| Olanzapine
| 536
| 23.7%
| 483
| 39.8%
|
| Placebo
| 304
| 14.1%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Normal to High
(< 100 mg/dL to ≥ 160 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 154
| 0%
| 123
| 7.3%
|
| Placebo
| 82
| 1.2%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Borderline to High
(≥ 100 mg/dL and < 160 mg/dL to ≥ 160 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 302
| 10.6%
| 284
| 31.0%
|
| Placebo
| 173
| 8.1%
| NA
a | NA
a |
In phase 1 of the Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE), over a median exposure of 9.2 months, the mean increase in triglycerides in patients taking olanzapine was 40.5 mg/dL. In phase 1 of CATIE, the mean increase in total cholesterol was 9.4 mg/dL.
Olanzapine Monotherapy in Adolescents — The safety and efficacy of olanzapine have not been established in patients under the age of 13 years. In an analysis of 3 placebo-controlled olanzapine monotherapy studies of adolescents, including those with schizophrenia (6 weeks) or bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes) (3 weeks), olanzapine-treated adolescents had increases from baseline in mean fasting total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides of 12.9 mg/dL, 6.5 mg/dL, and 28.4 mg/dL, respectively, compared to increases from baseline in mean fasting total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol of 1.3 mg/dL and 1.0 mg/dL, and a decrease in triglycerides of 1.1 mg/dL for placebo-treated adolescents. For fasting HDL cholesterol, no clinically meaningful differences were observed between olanzapine-treated adolescents and placebo-treated adolescents.
In long-term studies (at least 24 weeks), adolescents had increases from baseline in mean fasting total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides of 5.5 mg/dL, 5.4 mg/dL, and 20.5 mg/dL, respectively, and a mean decrease in fasting HDL cholesterol of 4.5 mg/dL.
Table 5 shows categorical changes in fasting lipids values in adolescents.
Table 5: Changes in Fasting Lipids Values from Adolescent Olanzapine Monotherapy Studies
|
|
| | | Up to 6 weeks exposure | At least 24 weeks exposure |
| Laboratory Analyte | Category Change (at least once)
from Baseline
| Treatment Arm | N
| Patients
| N
| Patients
|
Fasting
Triglycerides
| Increase by ≥ 50 mg/dL
| Olanzapine
| 138
| 37.0%
| 122
| 45.9%
|
| Placebo
| 66
| 15.2%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Normal to High
(< 90 mg/dL to > 130 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 67
| 26.9%
| 66
| 36.4%
|
| Placebo
| 28
| 10.7%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Borderline to High
(≥ 90 mg/dL and ≤ 130 mg/dL to > 130 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 37
| 59.5%
| 31
| 64.5%
|
| Placebo
| 17
| 35.3%
| NA
a | NA
a |
|
| | | | | | |
Fasting Total
Cholesterol
| Increase by ≥ 40 mg/dL
| Olanzapine
| 138
| 14.5%
| 122
| 14.8%
|
| Placebo
| 66
| 4.5%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Normal to High
(< 170 mg/dL to ≥ 200 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 87
| 6.9%
| 78
| 7.7%
|
| Placebo
| 43
| 2.3%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Borderline to High
(≥ 170 mg/dL and < 200 mg/dL to ≥ 200 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 36
| 38.9%
| 33
| 57.6%
|
| Placebo
| 13
| 7.7%
| NA
a | NA
a |
|
| | | | | | |
Fasting LDL
Cholesterol
| Increase by ≥ 30 mg/dL
| Olanzapine
| 137
| 17.5%
| 121
| 22.3%
|
| Placebo
| 63
| 11.1%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Normal to High
(< 110 mg/dL to ≥ 130 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 98
| 5.1%
| 92
| 10.9%
|
| Placebo
| 44
| 4.5%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Borderline to High
(≥ 110 mg/dL and < 130 mg/dL to ≥ 130 mg/dL)
| Olanzapine
| 29
| 48.3%
| 21
| 47.6%
|
| Placebo
| 9
| 0%
| NA
a | NA
a |
Weight Gain
Potential consequences of weight gain should be considered prior to starting olanzapine. Patients receiving olanzapine should receive regular monitoring of weight
[see Patient Counseling Information (
17)]
.
Olanzapine Monotherapy in Adults — In an analysis of 13 placebo-controlled olanzapine monotherapy studies, olanzapine-treated patients gained an average of 2.6 kg (5.7 lb) compared to an average 0.3 kg (0.6 lb) weight loss in placebo-treated patients with a median exposure of 6 weeks; 22.2% of olanzapine-treated patients gained at least 7% of their baseline weight, compared to 3% of placebo-treated patients, with a median exposure to event of 8 weeks; 4.2% of olanzapine-treated patients gained at least 15% of their baseline weight, compared to 0.3% of placebo-treated patients, with a median exposure to event of 12 weeks. Clinically significant weight gain was observed across all baseline Body Mass Index (BMI) categories. Discontinuation due to weight gain occurred in 0.2% of olanzapine-treated patients and in 0% of placebo-treated patients.
In long-term studies (at least 48 weeks), the mean weight gain was 5.6 kg (12.3 lb) (median exposure of 573 days, N=2021). The percentages of patients who gained at least 7%, 15%, or 25% of their baseline body weight with long-term exposure were 64%, 32%, and 12%, respectively. Discontinuation due to weight gain occurred in 0.4% of olanzapine-treated patients following at least 48 weeks of exposure.
Table 6 includes data on adult weight gain with olanzapine pooled from 86 clinical trials. The data in each column represent data for those patients who completed treatment periods of the durations specified.
Table 6: Weight Gain with Olanzapine Use in Adults
Amount Gained
kg (lb)
| 6 Weeks
(N=7465)
(%)
| 6 Months
(N=4162)
(%)
| 12 Months
(N=1345)
(%)
| 24 Months
(N=474)
(%)
| 36 Months
(N=147)
(%)
|
| ≤0
| 26.2
| 24.3
| 20.8
| 23.2
| 17.0
|
| 0 to ≤ 5 (0 lb to 11 lb)
| 57.0
| 36.0
| 26.0
| 23.4
| 25.2
|
| > 5 to ≤ 10 (11 lb to 22 lb)
| 14.9
| 24.6
| 24.2
| 24.1
| 18.4
|
| > 10 to ≤ 15 (22 lb to 33 lb)
| 1.8
| 10.9
| 14.9
| 11.4
| 17.0
|
| > 15 to ≤ 20 (33 lb to 44 lb)
| 0.1
| 3.1
| 8.6
| 9.3
| 11.6
|
| > 20 to ≤ 25 (44 lb to 55 lb)
| 0
| 0.9
| 3.3
| 5.1
| 4.1
|
| > 25 to ≤ 30 (55 lb to 66 lb)
| 0
| 0.2
| 1.4
| 2.3
| 4.8
|
| > 30 (> 66 lb)
| 0
| 0.1
| 0.8
| 1.2
| 2
|
Dose group differences with respect to weight gain have been observed. In a single 8-week randomized, double-blind, fixed-dose study comparing 10 (N=199), 20 (N=200) and 40 (N=200) mg/day of oral olanzapine in adult patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, mean baseline to endpoint increase in weight (10 mg/day: 1.9 kg; 20 mg/day: 2.3 kg; 40 mg/day: 3 kg) was observed with significant differences between 10 vs 40 mg/day.
Olanzapine Monotherapy in Adolescents — The safety and efficacy of olanzapine have not been established in patients under the age of 13 years. Mean increase in weight in adolescents was greater than in adults. In 4 placebo-controlled trials, discontinuation due to weight gain occurred in 1% of olanzapine-treated patients, compared to 0% of placebo-treated patients.
Table 7: Weight Gain with Olanzapine Use in Adolescents from 4 Placebo-Controlled Trials
| Olanzapine-treated patients | Placebo-treated patients |
| Mean change in body weight from baseline (median exposure = 3 weeks)
| 4.6 kg (10.1 lb)
| 0.3 kg (0.7 lb)
|
| Percentage of patients who gained at least 7% of baseline body weight
| 40.6%
| 9.8%
|
| (median exposure to 7% = 4 weeks)
| (median exposure to 7% = 8 weeks)
|
| Percentage of patients who gained at least 15% of baseline body weight
| 7.1%
| 2.7%
|
| (median exposure to 15% = 19 weeks)
| (median exposure to 15% = 8 weeks)
|
In long-term studies (at least 24 weeks), the mean weight gain was 11.2 kg (24.6 lb); (median exposure of 201 days, N=179). The percentages of adolescents who gained at least 7%, 15%, or 25% of their baseline body weight with long-term exposure were 89%, 55%, and 29%, respectively. Among adolescent patients, mean weight gain by baseline BMI category was 11.5 kg (25.3 lb), 12.1 kg (26.6 lb), and 12.7 kg (27.9 lb), respectively, for normal (N=106), overweight (N=26) and obese (N=17). Discontinuation due to weight gain occurred in 2.2% of olanzapine-treated patients following at least 24 weeks of exposure.
Table 8 shows data on adolescent weight gain with olanzapine pooled from 6 clinical trials. The data in each column represent data for those patients who completed treatment periods of the durations specified. Little clinical trial data is available on weight gain in adolescents with olanzapine beyond 6 months of treatment.
Table 8: Weight Gain with Olanzapine Use in Adolescents
Amount Gained
kg (lb)
| 6 Weeks
(N=243)
(%)
| 6 Months
(N=191)
(%)
|
| ≤ 0
| 2.9
| 2.1
|
| 0 to ≤ 5 (0 lb to 11 lb)
| 47.3
| 24.6
|
| > 5 to ≤ 10 (11 lb to 22 lb)
| 42.4
| 26.7
|
| > 10 to ≤ 15 (22 lb to 33 lb)
| 5.8
| 22.0
|
| > 15 to ≤ 20 (33 lb to 44 lb)
| 0.8
| 12.6
|
| > 20 to ≤ 25 (44 lb to 55 lb)
| 0.8
| 9.4
|
| > 25 to ≤ 30 (55 lb to 66 lb)
| 0
| 2.1
|
| > 30 to ≤ 35 (66 lb to 77 lb)
| 0
| 0
|
| > 35 to ≤ 40 (77 lb to 88 lb)
| 0
| 0
|
| > 40 (> 88 lb)
| 0
| 0.5
|
Clinical Trials in Adults
The information below for olanzapine is derived from a clinical trial database for olanzapine consisting of 10,504 adult patients with approximately 4765 patient-years of exposure to olanzapine plus 722 patients with exposure to intramuscular olanzapine for injection. This database includes: (1) 2500 patients who participated in multiple-dose oral olanzapine premarketing trials in schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease representing approximately 1122 patient-years of exposure as of February 14, 1995; (2) 182 patients who participated in oral olanzapine premarketing bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes) trials representing approximately 66 patient-years of exposure; (3) 191 patients who participated in an oral olanzapine trial of patients having various psychiatric symptoms in association with Alzheimer's disease representing approximately 29 patient-years of exposure; (4) 5788 additional patients from 88 oral olanzapine clinical trials as of December 31, 2001; (5) 1843 additional patients from 41 olanzapine clinical trials as of October 31, 2011; and (6) 722 patients who participated in intramuscular olanzapine for injection premarketing trials in agitated patients with schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes), or dementia. Also included below is information from the premarketing 6-week clinical study database for olanzapine in combination with lithium or valproate, consisting of 224 patients who participated in bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes) trials with approximately 22 patient-years of exposure.
The conditions and duration of treatment with olanzapine varied greatly and included (in overlapping categories) open-label and double-blind phases of studies, inpatients and outpatients, fixed-dose and dose-titration studies, and short-term or longer-term exposure. Adverse reactions were assessed by collecting adverse reactions, results of physical examinations, vital signs, weights, laboratory analytes, ECGs, chest x-rays, and results of ophthalmologic examinations.
Certain portions of the discussion below relating to objective or numeric safety parameters, namely, dose-dependent adverse reactions, vital sign changes, weight gain, laboratory changes, and ECG changes are derived from studies in patients with schizophrenia and have not been duplicated for bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes) or agitation. However, this information is also generally applicable to bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes) and agitation.
Adverse reactions during exposure were obtained by spontaneous report and recorded by clinical investigators using terminology of their own choosing. Consequently, it is not possible to provide a meaningful estimate of the proportion of individuals experiencing adverse reactions without first grouping similar types of reactions into a smaller number of standardized reaction categories. In the tables and tabulations that follow, MedDRA and COSTART Dictionary terminology has been used to classify reported adverse reactions.
The stated frequencies of adverse reactions represent the proportion of individuals who experienced, at least once, a treatment-emergent adverse reaction of the type listed. A reaction was considered treatment emergent if it occurred for the first time or worsened while receiving therapy following baseline evaluation. The reported reactions do not include those reaction terms that were so general as to be uninformative. Reactions listed elsewhere in labeling may not be repeated below. It is important to emphasize that, although the reactions occurred during treatment with olanzapine, they were not necessarily caused by it. The entire label should be read to gain a complete understanding of the safety profile of olanzapine.
The prescriber should be aware that the figures in the tables and tabulations cannot be used to predict the incidence of side effects in the course of usual medical practice where patient characteristics and other factors differ from those that prevailed in the clinical trials. Similarly, the cited frequencies cannot be compared with figures obtained from other clinical investigations involving different treatments, uses, and investigators. The cited figures, however, do provide the prescribing healthcare provider with some basis for estimating the relative contribution of drug and nondrug factors to the adverse reactions incidence in the population studied.
Incidence of Adverse Reactions in Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled and Combination Trials
The following findings are based on premarketing trials of (1) oral olanzapine for schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes), a subsequent trial of patients having various psychiatric symptoms in association with Alzheimer's disease, and premarketing combination trials, and (2) intramuscular olanzapine for injection in agitated patients with schizophrenia or bipolar I mania.
Adverse Reactions Associated with Discontinuation of Treatment in Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled Trials
Schizophrenia — Overall, there was no difference in the incidence of discontinuation due to adverse reactions (5% for oral olanzapine vs 6% for placebo). However, discontinuations due to increases in ALT were considered to be drug related (2% for oral olanzapine vs 0% for placebo).
Bipolar I Disorder (Manic or Mixed Episodes) Monotherapy — Overall, there was no difference in the incidence of discontinuation due to adverse reactions (2% for oral olanzapine vs 2% for placebo).
Agitation — Overall, there was no difference in the incidence of discontinuation due to adverse reactions (0.4% for intramuscular olanzapine for injection vs 0% for placebo).
Adverse Reactions Associated with Discontinuation of Treatment in Short-Term Combination Trials
Bipolar I Disorder (Manic or Mixed Episodes), Olanzapine as Adjunct to Lithium or Valproate — In a study of patients who were already tolerating either lithium or valproate as monotherapy, discontinuation rates due to adverse reactions were 11% for the combination of oral olanzapine with lithium or valproate compared to 2% for patients who remained on lithium or valproate monotherapy. Discontinuations with the combination of oral olanzapine and lithium or valproate that occurred in more than 1 patient were: somnolence (3%), weight gain (1%), and peripheral edema (1%).
Commonly Observed Adverse Reactions in Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled Trials
The most commonly observed adverse reactions associated with the use of oral olanzapine (incidence of 5% or greater) and not observed at an equivalent incidence among placebo-treated patients (olanzapine incidence at least twice that for placebo) were:
Table 9: Common Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions Associated with the Use of Oral Olanzapine in 6-Week Trials — SCHIZOPHRENIA
|
| Adverse Reaction | Percentage of Patients Reporting Event |
Olanzapine
(N=248)
| Placebo
(N=118)
|
| Postural hypotension
| 5
| 2
|
| Constipation
| 9
| 3
|
| Weight gain
| 6
| 1
|
| Dizziness
| 11
| 4
|
| Personality disorder
a | 8
| 4
|
| Akathisia
| 5
| 1
|
Table 10: Common Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions Associated with the Use of Oral Olanzapine in 3-Week and 4-Week Trials — Bipolar I Disorder (Manic or Mixed Episodes)
| Adverse Reaction | Percentage of Patients Reporting Event |
Olanzapine
(N=125)
| Placebo
(N=129)
|
| Asthenia
| 15
| 6
|
| Dry mouth
| 22
| 7
|
| Constipation
| 11
| 5
|
| Dyspepsia
| 11
| 5
|
| Increased appetite
| 6
| 3
|
| Somnolence
| 35
| 13
|
| Dizziness
| 18
| 6
|
| Tremor
| 6
| 3
|
Olanzapine Intramuscular — There was 1 adverse reaction (somnolence) observed at an incidence of 5% or greater among intramuscular olanzapine for injection-treated patients and not observed at an equivalent incidence among placebo-treated patients (olanzapine incidence at least twice that for placebo) during the placebo-controlled premarketing studies. The incidence of somnolence during the 24 hour IM treatment period in clinical trials in agitated patients with schizophrenia or bipolar I mania was 6% for intramuscular olanzapine for injection and 3% for placebo.
Adverse Reactions Occurring at an Incidence of 2% or More among Oral Olanzapine-Treated Patients in Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled Trials
Table 11 enumerates the incidence, rounded to the nearest percent, of treatment-emergent adverse reactions that occurred in 2% or more of patients treated with oral olanzapine (doses ≥ 2.5 mg/day) and with incidence greater than placebo who participated in the acute phase of placebo-controlled trials.
Table 11: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions: Incidence in Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials with Oral Olanzapine
| Body System/Adverse Reaction | Percentage of Patients Reporting Event |
Olanzapine
(N=532)
| Placebo
(N=294)
|
| Body as a Whole | | |
| Accidental injury
| 12
| 8
|
| Asthenia
| 10
| 9
|
| Fever
| 6
| 2
|
| Back pain
| 5
| 2
|
| Chest pain
| 3
| 1
|
| Cardiovascular System | | |
| Postural hypotension
| 3
| 1
|
| Tachycardia
| 3
| 1
|
| Hypertension
| 2
| 1
|
| Digestive System | | |
| Dry mouth
| 9
| 5
|
| Constipation
| 9
| 4
|
| Dyspepsia
| 7
| 5
|
| Vomiting
| 4
| 3
|
| Increased appetite
| 3
| 2
|
| Hemic and Lymphatic System | | |
| Ecchymosis
| 5
| 3
|
| Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders | | |
| Weight gain
| 5
| 3
|
| Peripheral edema
| 3
| 1
|
| Musculoskeletal System | | |
| Extremity pain (other than joint)
| 5
| 3
|
| Joint pain
| 5
| 3
|
| Nervous System | | |
| Somnolence
| 29
| 13
|
| Insomnia
| 12
| 11
|
| Dizziness
| 11
| 4
|
| Abnormal gait
| 6
| 1
|
| Tremor
| 4
| 3
|
| Akathisia
| 3
| 2
|
| Hypertonia
| 3
| 2
|
| Articulation impairment
| 2
| 1
|
| Respiratory System | | |
| Rhinitis
| 7
| 6
|
| Cough increased
| 6
| 3
|
| Pharyngitis
| 4
| 3
|
| Special Senses | | |
| Amblyopia
| 3
| 2
|
| Urogenital System | | |
| Urinary incontinence
| 2
| 1
|
| Urinary tract infection
| 2
| 1
|
Dose Dependency of Adverse Reactions
A dose group difference has been observed for fatigue, dizziness, weight gain and prolactin elevation. In a single 8-week randomized, double-blind, fixed-dose study comparing 10 (N=199), 20 (N=200) and 40 (N=200) mg/day of oral olanzapine in adult patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, incidence of fatigue (10 mg/day: 1.5%; 20 mg/day: 2.1%; 40 mg/day: 6.6%) was observed with significant differences between 10 vs 40 and 20 vs 40 mg/day. The incidence of dizziness (10 mg/day: 2.6%; 20 mg/day: 1.6%; 40 mg/day: 6.6%) was observed with significant differences between 20 vs 40 mg. Dose group differences were also noted for weight gain and prolactin elevation
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.5,
5.15)]
.
The following table addresses dose relatedness for other adverse reactions using data from a schizophrenia trial involving fixed dosage ranges of oral olanzapine. It enumerates the percentage of patients with treatment-emergent adverse reactions for the 3 fixed-dose range groups and placebo. The data were analyzed using the Cochran-Armitage test, excluding the placebo group, and the table includes only those adverse reactions for which there was a trend.
Table 12: Percentage of Patients from a Schizophrenia Trial with Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions for the 3 Dose Range Groups and Placebo
| Percentage of Patients Reporting Event |
| | Olanzapine | Olanzapine | Olanzapine |
| Placebo | 5 ± 2.5 mg/day | 10 ± 2.5 mg/day | 15 ± 2.5 mg/day |
| Adverse Reaction | (N=68) | (N=65) | (N=64) | (N=69) |
| Asthenia
| 15
| 8
| 9
| 20
|
| Dry mouth
| 4
| 3
| 5
| 13
|
| Nausea
| 9
| 0
| 2
| 9
|
| Somnolence
| 16
| 20
| 30
| 39
|
| Tremor
| 3
| 0
| 5
| 7
|
Commonly Observed Adverse Reactions in Short-Term Trials of Oral Olanzapine as Adjunct to Lithium or Valproate
In the bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes) adjunct placebo-controlled trials, the most commonly observed adverse reactions associated with the combination of olanzapine and lithium or valproate (incidence of ≥ 5% and at least twice placebo) were:
Table 13: Common Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions Associated with the Use of Oral Olanzapine in 6-Week Adjunct to Lithium or Valproate Trials — Bipolar I Disorder (Manic or Mixed Episodes)
| Adverse Reaction | Percentage of Patients Reporting Event |
Olanzapine with lithium or valproate
(N=229)
| Placebo with lithium or valproate
(N=115)
|
| Dry mouth
| 32
| 9
|
| Weight gain
| 26
| 7
|
| Increased appetite
| 24
| 8
|
| Dizziness
| 14
| 7
|
| Back pain
| 8
| 4
|
| Constipation
| 8
| 4
|
| Speech disorder
| 7
| 1
|
| Increased salivation
| 6
| 2
|
| Amnesia
| 5
| 2
|
| Paresthesia
| 5
| 2
|
Adverse Reactions Occurring at an Incidence of 2% or More among Oral Olanzapine-Treated Patients in Short-Term Trials of Olanzapine as Adjunct to Lithium or Valproate
Table 14 enumerates the incidence, rounded to the nearest percent, of treatment-emergent adverse reactions that occurred in 2% or more of patients treated with the combination of olanzapine (doses ≥5 mg/day) and lithium or valproate and with incidence greater than lithium or valproate alone who participated in the acute phase of placebo-controlled combination trials.
Table 14: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions: Incidence in Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials of Oral Olanzapine as Adjunct to Lithium or Valproate
|
| Body System/Adverse Reaction | Percentage of Patients Reporting Event |
Olanzapine with lithium or valproate
(N=229)
| Placebo with lithium or valproate
(N=115)
|
| Body as a Whole | | |
| Asthenia
| 18
| 13
|
| Back pain
| 8
| 4
|
| Accidental injury
| 4
| 2
|
| Chest pain
| 3
| 2
|
| Cardiovascular System | | |
| Hypertension
| 2
| 1
|
| Digestive System | | |
| Dry mouth
| 32
| 9
|
| Increased appetite
| 24
| 8
|
| Thirst
| 10
| 6
|
| Constipation
| 8
| 4
|
| Increased salivation
| 6
| 2
|
| Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders | | |
| Weight gain
| 26
| 7
|
| Peripheral edema
| 6
| 4
|
| Edema
| 2
| 1
|
| Nervous System | | |
| Somnolence
| 52
| 27
|
| Tremor
| 23
| 13
|
| Depression
| 18
| 17
|
| Dizziness
| 14
| 7
|
| Speech disorder
| 7
| 1
|
| Amnesia
| 5
| 2
|
| Paresthesia
| 5
| 2
|
| Apathy
| 4
| 3
|
| Confusion
| 4
| 1
|
| Euphoria
| 3
| 2
|
| Incoordination
| 2
| 0
|
| Respiratory System | | |
| Pharyngitis
| 4
| 1
|
| Dyspnea
| 3
| 1
|
| Skin and Appendages | | |
| Sweating
| 3
| 1
|
| Acne
| 2
| 0
|
| Dry skin
| 2
| 0
|
| Special Senses | | |
| Amblyopia
| 9
| 5
|
| Abnormal vision
| 2
| 0
|
| Urogenital System | | |
| Dysmenorrhea
a | 2
| 0
|
| Vaginitis
a | 2
| 0
|
For specific information about the adverse reactions observed with lithium or valproate, refer to the Adverse Reactions section of the package inserts for these other products.
Adverse Reactions Occurring at an Incidence of 1% or More among Intramuscular Olanzapine for Injection-Treated Patients in Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled Trials
Table 15 enumerates the incidence, rounded to the nearest percent, of treatment-emergent adverse reactions that occurred in 1% or more of patients treated with intramuscular olanzapine for injection (dose range of 2.5 mg/injection to 10 mg/injection) and with incidence greater than placebo who participated in the short-term, placebo-controlled trials in agitated patients with schizophrenia or bipolar I mania.
Table 15: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions: Incidence in Short-Term (24 Hour), Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials with Intramuscular Olanzapine for Injection in Agitated Patients with Schizophrenia or Bipolar I Mania
| Body System/Adverse Reaction | Percentage of Patients Reporting Event |
Olanzapine
(N=415)
| Placebo
(N=150)
|
| Body as a Whole | | |
| Asthenia
| 2
| 1
|
| Cardiovascular System | | |
| Hypotension
| 2
| 0
|
| Postural hypotension
| 1
| 0
|
| Nervous System | | |
| Somnolence
| 6
| 3
|
| Dizziness
| 4
| 2
|
| Tremor
| 1
| 0
|
Dystonia, Class Effect: Symptoms of dystonia, prolonged abnormal contractions of muscle groups, may occur in susceptible individuals during the first few days of treatment. Dystonic symptoms include: spasm of the neck muscles, sometimes progressing to tightness of the throat, swallowing difficulty, difficulty breathing, and/or protrusion of the tongue. While these symptoms can occur at low doses, the frequency and severity are greater with high potency and at higher doses of first generation antipsychotic drugs. In general, an elevated risk of acute dystonia may be observed in males and younger age groups receiving antipsychotics; however, events of dystonia have been reported infrequently (< 1%) with olanzapine use.
Other Adverse Reactions Observed During the Clinical Trial Evaluation of Oral Olanzapine
Following is a list of treatment-emergent adverse reactions reported by patients treated with oral olanzapine (at multiple doses ≥ 1 mg/day) in clinical trials. This listing is not intended to include reactions (1) already listed in previous tables or elsewhere in labeling, (2) for which a drug cause was remote, (3) which were so general as to be uninformative, (4) which were not considered to have significant clinical implications, or (5) which occurred at a rate equal to or less than placebo. Reactions are classified by body system using the following definitions: frequent adverse reactions are those occurring in at least 1/100 patients; infrequent adverse reactions are those occurring in 1/100 to 1/1000 patients; rare reactions are those occurring in fewer than 1/1000 patients.
- Body as a Whole —
Infrequent: chills, face edema, photosensitivity reaction, suicide attempt
1;
Rare: chills and fever, hangover effect, sudden death
1.
- Cardiovascular System —
Infrequent: cerebrovascular accident, vasodilatation.
- Digestive System —
Infrequent: abdominal distension, nausea and vomiting, tongue edema;
Rare: ileus, intestinal obstruction, liver fatty deposit.
- Hemic and Lymphatic System —
Infrequent: thrombocytopenia.
- Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders —
Frequent: alkaline phosphatase increased;
Infrequent: bilirubinemia, hypoproteinemia.
- Musculoskeletal System —
Rare: osteoporosis.
- Nervous System —
Infrequent: ataxia, dysarthria, libido decreased, stupor;
Rare: coma.
- Respiratory System —
Infrequent: epistaxis;
Rare: lung edema.
- Skin and Appendages —
Infrequent: alopecia.
- Special Senses —
Infrequent: abnormality of accommodation, dry eyes;
Rare: mydriasis.
- Urogenital System —
Infrequent: amenorrhea
2, breast pain, decreased menstruation, impotence
2, increased menstruation
2, menorrhagia
2, metrorrhagia
2, polyuria
2, urinary frequency, urinary retention, urinary urgency, urination impaired.
1 These terms represent serious adverse events but do not meet the definition for adverse drug reactions. They are included here because of their seriousness.
2 Adjusted for gender.
Other Adverse Reactions Observed During the Clinical Trial Evaluation of Intramuscular Olanzapine for Injection
Following is a list of treatment-emergent adverse reactions reported by patients treated with intramuscular olanzapine for injection (at 1 or more doses ≥ 2.5 mg/injection) in clinical trials. This listing is not intended to include reactions (1) already listed in previous tables or elsewhere in labeling, (2) for which a drug cause was remote, (3) which were so general as to be uninformative, (4) which were not considered to have significant clinical implications, or (5) for which occurred at a rate equal to or less than placebo. Reactions are classified by body system using the following definitions: frequent adverse reactions are those occurring in at least 1/100 patients; infrequent adverse reactions are those occurring in 1/100 to 1/1000 patients.
- Body as a Whole —
Frequent: injection site pain.
- Cardiovascular System —
Infrequent: syncope.
- Digestive System —
Infrequent: nausea.
- Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders —
Infrequent: creatine phosphokinase increased.
Commonly Observed Adverse Reactions in Oral Olanzapine Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled Trials
Adverse reactions in adolescent patients treated with oral olanzapine (doses ≥ 2.5 mg) reported with an incidence of 5% or more and reported at least twice as frequently as placebo-treated patients are listed in
Table 21.
Table 21: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions of ≥ 5% Incidence among Adolescents (13 Years Old to 17 Years Old) with Schizophrenia or Bipolar I Disorder (Manic or Mixed Episodes)
|
|
| Adverse Reactions | Percentage of Patients Reporting Event |
6 Week Trial
% Schizophrenia Patients
| 3 Week Trial
% Bipolar Patients
|
Olanzapine
(N=72)
| Placebo
(N=35)
| Olanzapine
(N=107)
| Placebo
(N=54)
|
| Sedation
a | 39
| 9
| 48
| 9
|
| Weight increased
| 31
| 9
| 29
| 4
|
| Headache
| 17
| 6
| 17
| 17
|
| Increased appetite
| 17
| 9
| 29
| 4
|
| Dizziness
| 8
| 3
| 7
| 2
|
| Abdominal pain
b | 6
| 3
| 6
| 7
|
| Pain in extremity
| 6
| 3
| 5
| 0
|
| Fatigue
| 3
| 3
| 14
| 6
|
| Dry mouth
| 4
| 0
| 7
| 0
|
Adverse Reactions Occurring at an Incidence of 2% or More among Oral Olanzapine-Treated Patients in Short-Term (3 weeks to 6 weeks), Placebo-Controlled Trials
Adverse reactions in adolescent patients treated with oral olanzapine (doses ≥ 2.5 mg) reported with an incidence of 2% or more and greater than placebo are listed in
Table 22.
Table 22: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions of ≥ 2% Incidence among Adolescents (13 Years Old to 17 Years Old) (Combined Incidence from Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials of Schizophrenia or Bipolar I Disorder [Manic or Mixed Episodes])
|
|
|
| Adverse Reaction | Percentage of Patients Reporting Event |
Olanzapine
(N=179)
| Placebo
(N=89)
|
| Sedation
a | 44
| 9
|
| Weight increased
| 30
| 6
|
| Increased appetite
| 24
| 6
|
| Headache
| 17
| 12
|
| Fatigue
| 9
| 4
|
| Dizziness
| 7
| 2
|
| Dry mouth
| 6
| 0
|
| Pain in extremity
| 5
| 1
|
| Constipation
| 4
| 0
|
| Nasopharyngitis
| 4
| 2
|
| Diarrhea
| 3
| 0
|
| Restlessness
| 3
| 2
|
| Liver enzymes increased
b | 8
| 1
|
| Dyspepsia
| 3
| 1
|
| Epistaxis
| 3
| 0
|
| Respiratory tract infection
c | 3
| 2
|
| Sinusitis
| 3
| 0
|
| Arthralgia
| 2
| 0
|
| Musculoskeletal stiffness
| 2
| 0
|
Vital Signs and Laboratory Studies
Vital Sign Changes — Oral olanzapine was associated with orthostatic hypotension and tachycardia in clinical trials. Intramuscular olanzapine for injection was associated with bradycardia, hypotension, and tachycardia in clinical trials
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5)]
.
Laboratory Changes
Olanzapine Monotherapy in Adults: An assessment of the premarketing experience for olanzapine revealed an association with asymptomatic increases in ALT, AST, and GGT. Within the original premarketing database of about 2400 adult patients with baseline ALT ≤ 90 IU/L, the incidence of ALT elevations to > 200 IU/L was 2% (50/2381). None of these patients experienced jaundice or other symptoms attributable to liver impairment and most had transient changes that tended to normalize while olanzapine treatment was continued.
In placebo-controlled olanzapine monotherapy studies in adults, clinically significant ALT elevations (change from < 3 times the upper limit of normal [ULN] at baseline to ≥ 3 times ULN) were observed in 5% (77/1426) of patients exposed to olanzapine compared to 1% (10/1187) of patients exposed to placebo. ALT elevations ≥ 5 times ULN were observed in 2% (29/1438) of olanzapine-treated patients, compared to 0.3% (4/1196) of placebo-treated patients. ALT values returned to normal, or were decreasing, at last follow-up in the majority of patients who either continued treatment with olanzapine or discontinued olanzapine. No patient with elevated ALT values experienced jaundice, liver failure, or met the criteria for Hy's Rule.
From an analysis of the laboratory data in an integrated database of 41 completed clinical studies in adult patients treated with oral olanzapine, high GGT levels were recorded in ≥ 1% (88/5245) of patients.
Caution should be exercised in patients with signs and symptoms of hepatic impairment, in patients with pre-existing conditions associated with limited hepatic functional reserve, and in patients who are being treated with potentially hepatotoxic drugs.
Olanzapine administration was also associated with increases in serum prolactin
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.15)]
, with an asymptomatic elevation of the eosinophil count in 0.3% of patients, and with an increase in CPK.
From an analysis of the laboratory data in an integrated database of 41 completed clinical studies in adult patients treated with oral olanzapine, elevated uric acid was recorded in ≥ 3% (171/4641) of patients.
Olanzapine Monotherapy in Adolescents: In placebo-controlled clinical trials of adolescent patients with schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes), greater frequencies for the following treatment-emergent findings, at anytime, were observed in laboratory analytes compared to placebo: elevated ALT (≥ 3X ULN in patients with ALT at baseline < 3X ULN), (12% vs 2%); elevated AST (28% vs 4%); low total bilirubin (22% vs 7%); elevated GGT (10% vs 1%); and elevated prolactin (47% vs 7%).
In placebo-controlled olanzapine monotherapy studies in adolescents, clinically significant ALT elevations (change from < 3 times ULN at baseline to ≥ 3 times ULN) were observed in 12% (22/192) of patients exposed to olanzapine compared to 2% (2/109) of patients exposed to placebo. ALT elevations ≥ 5 times ULN were observed in 4% (8/192) of olanzapine-treated patients, compared to 1% (1/109) of placebo-treated patients. ALT values returned to normal, or were decreasing, at last follow-up in the majority of patients who either continued treatment with olanzapine or discontinued olanzapine. No adolescent patient with elevated ALT values experienced jaundice, liver failure, or met the criteria for Hy's Rule.
ECG Changes — In pooled studies of adults as well as pooled studies of adolescents, there were no significant differences between olanzapine and placebo in the proportions of patients experiencing potentially important changes in ECG parameters, including QT, QTc (Fridericia corrected), and PR intervals. Olanzapine use was associated with a mean increase in heart rate compared to placebo (adults: +2.4 beats per minute vs no change with placebo; adolescents: +6.3 beats per minute vs -5.1 beats per minute with placebo). This increase in heart rate may be related to olanzapine's potential for inducing orthostatic changes
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.7)]
.
Diazepam — The co-administration of diazepam with olanzapine potentiated the orthostatic hypotension observed with olanzapine
[see Drug Interactions (
7.2)]
.
Cimetidine and Antacids — Single doses of cimetidine (800 mg) or aluminum- and magnesium-containing antacids did not affect the oral bioavailability of olanzapine.
Inducers of CYP1A2 — Carbamazepine therapy (200 mg bid) causes an approximately 50% increase in the clearance of olanzapine. This increase is likely due to the fact that carbamazepine is a potent inducer of CYP1A2 activity. Higher daily doses of carbamazepine may cause an even greater increase in olanzapine clearance.
Alcohol — Ethanol (45 mg/70 kg single dose) did not have an effect on olanzapine pharmacokinetics. The co-administration of alcohol (i.e., ethanol) with olanzapine potentiated the orthostatic hypotension observed with olanzapine
[see Drug Interactions (
7.2)]
.
Inhibitors of CYP1A2
Fluvoxamine: Fluvoxamine, a CYP1A2 inhibitor, decreases the clearance of olanzapine. This results in a mean increase in olanzapine Cmax following fluvoxamine of 54% in female nonsmokers and 77% in male smokers. The mean increase in olanzapine AUC is 52% and 108%, respectively. Lower doses of olanzapine should be considered in patients receiving concomitant treatment with fluvoxamine.
Inhibitors of CYP2D6
Fluoxetine: Fluoxetine (60 mg single dose or 60 mg daily dose for 8 days) causes a small (mean 16%) increase in the maximum concentration of olanzapine and a small (mean 16%) decrease in olanzapine clearance. The magnitude of the impact of this factor is small in comparison to the overall variability between individuals, and therefore dose modification is not routinely recommended. When using olanzapine and fluoxetine in combination, also refer to the Drug Interactions section of the package insert for Symbyax.
Warfarin — Warfarin (20 mg single dose) did not affect olanzapine pharmacokinetics
[see Drug Interactions (
7.2)]
.
Inducers of CYP1A2 or Glucuronyl Transferase — Omeprazole and rifampin may cause an increase in olanzapine clearance.
Charcoal — The administration of activated charcoal (1 g) reduced the C
max and AUC of oral olanzapine by about 60%. As peak olanzapine levels are not typically obtained until about 6 hours after dosing, charcoal may be a useful treatment for olanzapine overdose.
Anticholinergic Drugs — Concomitant treatment with olanzapine and other drugs with anticholinergic activity can increase the risk for severe gastrointestinal adverse reactions related to hypomotility. Olanzapine should be used with caution in patients receiving medications having anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) effects [see Warnings and Precautions (
5.14)].
CNS Acting Drugs — Given the primary CNS effects of olanzapine, caution should be used when olanzapine is taken in combination with other centrally acting drugs and alcohol.
Antihypertensive Agents — Olanzapine, because of its potential for inducing hypotension, may enhance the effects of certain antihypertensive agents.
Levodopa and Dopamine Agonists — Olanzapine may antagonize the effects of levodopa and dopamine agonists.
Lorazepam (intramuscular) — Administration of intramuscular lorazepam (2 mg) 1 hour after intramuscular olanzapine for injection (5 mg) did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of olanzapine, unconjugated lorazepam, or total lorazepam. However, this co-administration of intramuscular lorazepam and intramuscular olanzapine for injection added to the somnolence observed with either drug alone
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.7)]
.
Lithium — Multiple doses of olanzapine (10 mg for 8 days) did not influence the kinetics of lithium. Therefore, concomitant olanzapine administration does not require dosage adjustment of lithium
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.16)]
.
Valproate — Olanzapine (10 mg daily for 2 weeks) did not affect the steady state plasma concentrations of valproate. Therefore, concomitant olanzapine administration does not require dosage adjustment of valproate
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.16)]
.
Effect of Olanzapine on Drug Metabolizing Enzymes — In vitro studies utilizing human liver microsomes suggest that olanzapine has little potential to inhibit CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A. Thus, olanzapine is unlikely to cause clinically important drug interactions mediated by these enzymes.
Imipramine — Single doses of olanzapine did not affect the pharmacokinetics of imipramine or its active metabolite desipramine.
Warfarin — Single doses of olanzapine did not affect the pharmacokinetics of warfarin
[see Drug Interactions (
7.1)]
.
Diazepam — Olanzapine did not influence the pharmacokinetics of diazepam or its active metabolite N-desmethyldiazepam. However, diazepam co-administered with olanzapine increased the orthostatic hypotension observed with either drug given alone
[see Drug Interactions (
7.1)]
.
Alcohol — Multiple doses of olanzapine did not influence the kinetics of ethanol
[see Drug Interactions (
7.1)]
.
Biperiden — Multiple doses of olanzapine did not influence the kinetics of biperiden.
Theophylline — Multiple doses of olanzapine did not affect the pharmacokinetics of theophylline or its metabolites.
Pregnancy Exposure Registry
There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to atypical antipsychotics, including Olanzapine, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by contacting the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics at 1-866-961-2388 or visit http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/.
Risk Summary
Neonates exposed to antipsychotic drugs, including Olanzapine, during the third trimester are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms following delivery (see Clinical Considerations). Overall available data from published epidemiologic studies of pregnant women exposed to olanzapine have not established a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes (see Data). There are risks to the mother associated with untreated schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder and with exposure to antipsychotics, including Olanzapine, during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations).
Olanzapine was not teratogenic when administered orally to pregnant rats and rabbits at doses that are 9- and 30-times the daily oral maximum recommended human dose (MRHD), based on mg/m2 body surface area; some fetal toxicities were observed at these doses (see Data).
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defects, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Disease-associated maternal and embryo/fetal risk
There is a risk to the mother from untreated schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder, including increased risk of relapse, hospitalization, and suicide. Schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder are associated with increased adverse perinatal outcomes, including preterm birth. It is not known if this is a direct result of the illness or other comorbid factors.
Oral Administration, Monotherapy — Olanzapine is well absorbed and reaches peak concentrations in approximately 6 hours following an oral dose. It is eliminated extensively by first pass metabolism, with approximately 40% of the dose metabolized before reaching the systemic circulation. Food does not affect the rate or extent of olanzapine absorption. Pharmacokinetic studies showed that olanzapine tablets and olanzapine orally disintegrating tablets dosage forms of olanzapine are bioequivalent.
Olanzapine displays linear kinetics over the clinical dosing range. Its half-life ranges from 21 to 54 hours (5th to 95th percentile; mean of 30 hr), and apparent plasma clearance ranges from 12 to 47 L/hr (5th to 95th percentile; mean of 25 L/hr).
Administration of olanzapine once daily leads to steady-state concentrations in about 1 week that are approximately twice the concentrations after single doses. Plasma concentrations, half-life, and clearance of olanzapine may vary between individuals on the basis of smoking status, gender, and age.
Olanzapine is extensively distributed throughout the body, with a volume of distribution of approximately 1000 L. It is 93% bound to plasma proteins over the concentration range of 7 to 1100 ng/mL, binding primarily to albumin and α
1-acid glycoprotein.
Metabolism and Elimination — Following a single oral dose of
14C labeled olanzapine, 7% of the dose of olanzapine was recovered in the urine as unchanged drug, indicating that olanzapine is highly metabolized. Approximately 57% and 30% of the dose was recovered in the urine and feces, respectively. In the plasma, olanzapine accounted for only 12% of the AUC for total radioactivity, indicating significant exposure to metabolites. After multiple dosing, the major circulating metabolites were the 10-N-glucuronide, present at steady state at 44% of the concentration of olanzapine, and 4′-N-desmethyl olanzapine, present at steady state at 31% of the concentration of olanzapine. Both metabolites lack pharmacological activity at the concentrations observed.
Direct glucuronidation and cytochrome P450 (CYP) mediated oxidation are the primary metabolic pathways for olanzapine. In vitro studies suggest that CYPs 1A2 and 2D6, and the flavin-containing monooxygenase system are involved in olanzapine oxidation. CYP2D6 mediated oxidation appears to be a minor metabolic pathway in vivo, because the clearance of olanzapine is not reduced in subjects who are deficient in this enzyme.
Intramuscular Administration — Olanzapine IntraMuscular results in rapid absorption with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 15 to 45 minutes. Based upon a pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers, a 5 mg dose of intramuscular olanzapine for injection produces, on average, a maximum plasma concentration approximately 5 times higher than the maximum plasma concentration produced by a 5 mg dose of oral olanzapine. Area under the curve achieved after an intramuscular dose is similar to that achieved after oral administration of the same dose. The half-life observed after intramuscular administration is similar to that observed after oral dosing. The pharmacokinetics are linear over the clinical dosing range. Metabolic profiles after intramuscular administration are qualitatively similar to metabolic profiles after oral administration.
Specific Populations
Renal Impairment — Because olanzapine is highly metabolized before excretion and only 7% of the drug is excreted unchanged, renal dysfunction alone is unlikely to have a major impact on the pharmacokinetics of olanzapine. The pharmacokinetic characteristics of olanzapine were similar in patients with severe renal impairment and normal subjects, indicating that dosage adjustment based upon the degree of renal impairment is not required. In addition, olanzapine is not removed by dialysis. The effect of renal impairment on metabolite elimination has not been studied.
Hepatic Impairment — Although the presence of hepatic impairment may be expected to reduce the clearance of olanzapine, a study of the effect of impaired liver function in subjects (n=6) with clinically significant (Childs Pugh Classification A and B) cirrhosis revealed little effect on the pharmacokinetics of olanzapine.
Geriatric — In a study involving 24 healthy subjects, the mean elimination half-life of olanzapine was about 1.5 times greater in elderly (≥ 65 years) than in nonelderly subjects (<65 years). Caution should be used in dosing the elderly, especially if there are other factors that might additively influence drug metabolism and/or pharmacodynamic sensitivity
[see Dosage and Administration (
2)]
.
Gender — Clearance of olanzapine is approximately 30% lower in women than in men. There were, however, no apparent differences between men and women in effectiveness or adverse effects. Dosage modifications based on gender should not be needed.
Smoking Status — Olanzapine clearance is about 40% higher in smokers than in nonsmokers, although dosage modifications are not routinely recommended.
Race — In vivo studies have shown that exposures are similar among Japanese, Chinese and Caucasians, especially after normalization for body weight differences. Dosage modifications for race are, therefore, not recommended.
Combined Effects — The combined effects of age, smoking, and gender could lead to substantial pharmacokinetic differences in populations. The clearance in young smoking males, for example, may be 3 times higher than that in elderly nonsmoking females. Dosing modification may be necessary in patients who exhibit a combination of factors that may result in slower metabolism of olanzapine
[see Dosage and Administration (
2)]
.
Adolescents (ages 13 years to 17 years) — In clinical studies, most adolescents were nonsmokers and this population had a lower average body weight, which resulted in higher average olanzapine exposure compared to adults.
Carcinogenesis — Oral carcinogenicity studies were conducted in mice and rats. Olanzapine was administered to mice in two 78-week studies at doses of 3, 10, 30/20 mg/kg/day (equivalent to 0.8 times to 5 times the daily oral MRHD based on a mg/m2 body surface area) and 0.25, 2, 8 mg/kg/day (equivalent to 0.06 times to 2 times the daily oral MRHD based on a mg/m2 body surface area). Rats were dosed for 2 years at doses of 0.25, 1, 2.5, 4 mg/kg/day (males) and 0.25, 1, 4, 8 mg/kg/day (females) (equivalent to 0.13 times to 2 times and 0.13 times to 4 times the daily oral MRHD based on a mg/m2 body surface area, respectively). The incidence of liver hemangiomas and hemangiosarcomas was significantly increased in 1 mouse study in female mice dosed at 2 times the daily oral MRHD based on a mg/m2 body surface area. These tumors were not increased in another mouse study in females dosed up to 2 times to 5 times the daily oral MRHD based on a mg/m2 body surface area); in this study, there was a high incidence of early mortalities in males of the 30/20 mg/kg/day group. The incidence of mammary gland adenomas and adenocarcinomas was significantly increased in female mice dosed at ≥ 2 mg/kg/day and in female rats dosed at ≥ 4 mg/kg/day (0.5 times and 2 times the daily oral MRHD based on a mg/m2 body surface area, respectively). Antipsychotic drugs have been shown to chronically elevate prolactin levels in rodents. Serum prolactin levels were not measured during the olanzapine carcinogenicity studies; however, measurements during subchronic toxicity studies showed that olanzapine elevated serum prolactin levels up to 4-fold in rats at the same doses used in the carcinogenicity study. An increase in mammary gland neoplasms has been found in rodents after chronic administration of other antipsychotic drugs and is considered to be prolactin mediated. The relevance for human risk of the finding of prolactin mediated endocrine tumors in rodents is unknown
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.15)]
.
Mutagenesis — No evidence of genotoxic potential for olanzapine was found in the Ames reverse mutation test, in vivo micronucleus test in mice, the chromosomal aberration test in Chinese hamster ovary cells, unscheduled DNA synthesis test in rat hepatocytes, induction of forward mutation test in mouse lymphoma cells, or in vivo sister chromatid exchange test in bone marrow of Chinese hamsters.
Impairment of Fertility — In an oral fertility and reproductive performance study in rats, male mating performance, but not fertility, was impaired at a dose of 22.4 mg/kg/day and female fertility was decreased at a dose of 3 mg/kg/day (11 and 1.5 times the daily oral MRHD based on a mg/m2 body surface area, respectively). Discontinuance of olanzapine treatment reversed the effects on male mating performance. In female rats, the precoital period was increased and the mating index reduced at 5 mg/kg/day (2.5 times the daily oral MRHD based on a mg/m2 body surface area). Diestrous was prolonged and estrous delayed at 1.1 mg/kg/day (0.6 times the daily oral dose MRHD based on a mg/m2 body surface area); therefore olanzapine may produce a delay in ovulation.
Adults
The efficacy of oral olanzapine in the treatment of schizophrenia was established in 2 short-term (6-week) controlled trials of adult inpatients who met DSM III-R criteria for schizophrenia. A single haloperidol arm was included as a comparative treatment in 1 of the 2 trials, but this trial did not compare these 2 drugs on the full range of clinically relevant doses for both.
Several instruments were used for assessing psychiatric signs and symptoms in these studies, among them the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), a multi-item inventory of general psychopathology traditionally used to evaluate the effects of drug treatment in schizophrenia. The BPRS psychosis cluster (conceptual disorganization, hallucinatory behavior, suspiciousness, and unusual thought content) is considered a particularly useful subset for assessing actively psychotic schizophrenic patients. A second traditional assessment, the Clinical Global Impression (CGI), reflects the impression of a skilled observer, fully familiar with the manifestations of schizophrenia, about the overall clinical state of the patient. In addition, 2 more recently developed scales were employed; these included the 30-item Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale (PANSS), in which are embedded the 18 items of the BPRS, and the Scale for Assessing Negative Symptoms (SANS). The trial summaries below focus on the following outcomes: PANSS total and/or BPRS total; BPRS psychosis cluster; PANSS negative subscale or SANS; and CGI Severity. The results of the trials follow:
(1) In a 6-week, placebo-controlled trial (n=149) involving 2 fixed olanzapine doses of 1 and 10 mg/day (once daily schedule), olanzapine, at 10 mg/day (but not at 1 mg/day), was superior to placebo on the PANSS total score (also on the extracted BPRS total), on the BPRS psychosis cluster, on the PANSS Negative subscale, and on CGI Severity.
(2) In a 6-week, placebo-controlled trial (n=253) involving 3 fixed dose ranges of olanzapine (5 ± 2.5 mg/day, 10 ± 2.5 mg/day, and 15 ± 2.5 mg/day) on a once daily schedule, the 2 highest olanzapine dose groups (actual mean doses of 12 and 16 mg/day, respectively) were superior to placebo on BPRS total score, BPRS psychosis cluster, and CGI severity score; the highest olanzapine dose group was superior to placebo on the SANS. There was no clear advantage for the high-dose group over the medium-dose group.
(3) In a longer-term trial, adult outpatients (n=326) who predominantly met DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia and who remained stable on olanzapine during open-label treatment for at least 8 weeks were randomized to continuation on their current olanzapine doses (ranging from 10 to 20 mg/day) or to placebo. The follow-up period to observe patients for relapse, defined in terms of increases in BPRS positive symptoms or hospitalization, was planned for 12 months, however, criteria were met for stopping the trial early due to an excess of placebo relapses compared to olanzapine relapses, and olanzapine was superior to placebo on time to relapse, the primary outcome for this study. Thus, olanzapine was more effective than placebo at maintaining efficacy in patients stabilized for approximately 8 weeks and followed for an observation period of up to 8 months.
Examination of population subsets (race and gender) did not reveal any differential responsiveness on the basis of these subgroupings.
Adolescents
The efficacy of oral olanzapine in the acute treatment of schizophrenia in adolescents (ages 13 years to 17 years) was established in a 6-week double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial of inpatients and outpatients with schizophrenia (n=107) who met diagnostic criteria according to DSM-IV-TR and confirmed by the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School Aged Children-Present and Lifetime Version (K-SADS-PL).
The primary rating instrument used for assessing psychiatric signs and symptoms in this trial was the Anchored Version of the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale for Children (BPRS-C) total score.
In this flexible-dose trial, olanzapine 2.5 to 20 mg/day (mean modal dose 12.5 mg/day, mean dose of 11.1 mg/day) was more effective than placebo in the treatment of adolescents diagnosed with schizophrenia, as supported by the statistically significantly greater mean reduction in BPRS-C total score for patients in the olanzapine treatment group than in the placebo group.
While there is no body of evidence available to answer the question of how long the adolescent patient treated with olanzapine should be maintained, maintenance efficacy can be extrapolated from adult data along with comparisons of olanzapine pharmacokinetic parameters in adult and adolescent patients. It is generally recommended that responding patients be continued beyond the acute response, but at the lowest dose needed to maintain remission. Patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for maintenance treatment.
Adults
Monotherapy — The efficacy of oral olanzapine in the treatment of manic or mixed episodes was established in 2 short-term (one 3-week and one 4-week) placebo-controlled trials in adult patients who met the DSM-IV criteria for bipolar I disorder with manic or mixed episodes. These trials included patients with or without psychotic features and with or without a rapid-cycling course.
The primary rating instrument used for assessing manic symptoms in these trials was the Young Mania Rating Scale (Y-MRS), an 11-item clinician-rated scale traditionally used to assess the degree of manic symptomatology (irritability, disruptive/aggressive behavior, sleep, elevated mood, speech, increased activity, sexual interest, language/thought disorder, thought content, appearance, and insight) in a range from 0 (no manic features) to 60 (maximum score). The primary outcome in these trials was change from baseline in the Y-MRS total score. The results of the trials follow:
(1) In one 3-week placebo-controlled trial (n=67) which involved a dose range of olanzapine (5 mg/day to 20 mg/day, once daily, starting at 10 mg/day), olanzapine was superior to placebo in the reduction of Y-MRS total score. In an identically designed trial conducted simultaneously with the first trial, olanzapine demonstrated a similar treatment difference, but possibly due to sample size and site variability, was not shown to be superior to placebo on this outcome.
(2) In a 4-week placebo-controlled trial (n=115) which involved a dose range of olanzapine (5 mg/day to 20 mg/day, once daily, starting at 15 mg/day), olanzapine was superior to placebo in the reduction of Y-MRS total score.
(3) In another trial, 361 patients meeting DSM-IV criteria for a manic or mixed episode of bipolar I disorder who had responded during an initial open-label treatment phase for about 2 weeks, on average, to olanzapine 5 to 20 mg/day were randomized to either continuation of olanzapine at their same dose (n=225) or to placebo (n=136), for observation of relapse. Approximately 50% of the patients had discontinued from the olanzapine group by day 59 and 50% of the placebo group had discontinued by day 23 of double-blind treatment. Response during the open-label phase was defined by having a decrease of the Y-MRS total score to ≤ 12 and HAM-D 21 to ≤ 8. Relapse during the double-blind phase was defined as an increase of the Y-MRS or HAM-D 21 total score to ≥ 15, or being hospitalized for either mania or depression. In the randomized phase, patients receiving continued olanzapine experienced a significantly longer time to relapse.
Adjunct to Lithium or Valproate — The efficacy of oral olanzapine with concomitant lithium or valproate in the treatment of manic or mixed episodes was established in 2 controlled trials in patients who met the DSM-IV criteria for bipolar I disorder with manic or mixed episodes. These trials included patients with or without psychotic features and with or without a rapid-cycling course. The results of the trials follow:
(1) In one 6-week placebo-controlled combination trial, 175 outpatients on lithium or valproate therapy with inadequately controlled manic or mixed symptoms (Y-MRS ≥ 16) were randomized to receive either olanzapine or placebo, in combination with their original therapy. Olanzapine (in a dose range of 5 mg/day to 20 mg/day, once daily, starting at 10 mg/day) combined with lithium or valproate (in a therapeutic range of 0.6 mEq/L to 1.2 mEq/L or 50 mcg/mL to 125 mcg/mL, respectively) was superior to lithium or valproate alone in the reduction of Y-MRS total score.
(2) In a second 6-week placebo-controlled combination trial, 169 outpatients on lithium or valproate therapy with inadequately controlled manic or mixed symptoms (Y-MRS ≥ 16) were randomized to receive either olanzapine or placebo, in combination with their original therapy. Olanzapine (in a dose range of 5 mg/day to 20 mg/day, once daily, starting at 10 mg/day) combined with lithium or valproate (in a therapeutic range of 0.6 mEq/L to 1.2 mEq/L or 50 mcg/mL to 125 mcg/mL, respectively) was superior to lithium or valproate alone in the reduction of Y-MRS total score.
Adolescents
Acute Monotherapy — The efficacy of oral olanzapine in the treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes in adolescents (ages 13 years to 17 years) was established in a 3-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial of adolescent inpatients and outpatients who met the diagnostic criteria for manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder (with or without psychotic features) according to the DSM-IV-TR (n=161). Diagnosis was confirmed by the K-SADS-PL.
The primary rating instrument used for assessing manic symptoms in this trial was the Adolescent Structured Young-Mania Rating Scale (Y-MRS) total score.
In this flexible-dose trial,olanzapine 2.5 to 20 mg/day (mean modal dose 10.7 mg/day, mean dose of 8.9 mg/day) was more effective than placebo in the treatment of adolescents with manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder, as supported by the statistically significantly greater mean reduction in Y-MRS total score for patients in the olanzapine treatment group than in the placebo group.
While there is no body of evidence available to answer the question of how long the adolescent patient treated with olanzapine should be maintained, maintenance efficacy can be extrapolated from adult data along with comparisons of olanzapine pharmacokinetic parameters in adult and adolescent patients. It is generally recommended that responding patients be continued beyond the acute response, but at the lowest dose needed to maintain remission. Patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for maintenance treatment.
Pregnancy — Advise women to notify their healthcare providers if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with olanzapine. Advise patients that olanzapine may cause extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms (agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress, and feeding disorder) in a neonate. Advise patients that there is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to olanzapine during pregnancy
[see Use in Specific Populations (
8.1)]
.
Lactation — Advise breastfeeding women using olanzapine to monitor infants for excess sedation, irritability, poor feeding and extrapyramidal symptoms (tremors and abnormal muscle movements) and to seek medical care if they notice these signs
[see Use in Specific Populations (
8.3)]
.
Infertility — Advise females of reproductive potential that olanzapine may impair fertility due to an increase in serum prolactin levels. The effects on fertility are reversible [see
Use in Specific Populations (8.3)] .
Pediatric Use —Olanzapine is indicated for treatment of schizophrenia and manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder in adolescents 13 years to 17 years of age. Compared to patients from adult clinical trials, adolescents were likely to gain more weight, experience increased sedation, and have greater increases in total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, prolactin, and hepatic aminotransferase levels. Patients should be counseled about the potential long-term risks associated with olanzapine and advised that these risks may lead them to consider other drugs first
[see Indications and Usage (
1.1,
1.2)]
. Safety and effectiveness of olanzapine in patients under 13 years of age have not been established. Safety and efficacy of olanzapine and fluoxetine in combination in patients 10 years to 17 years of age have been established for the acute treatment of depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. Safety and effectiveness of olanzapine and fluoxetine in combination in patients <10 years of age have not been established
[see Warnings and Precautions (
5.5) and Use in Specific Populations (
8.4)]
.
Symbyax
® is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company.
Manufactured by:
Sunshine Lake Pharma Co., Ltd.No. 1, Northern Industry Road,
Northern Industry Park of Song Shan Lake
Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
Distributed by:
HEC Pharm USA Inc.Plainsboro, NJ 08536
Revised: 03/2026