Can Olanzapine Cause Anxiety?
December 14, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Olanzapine is an antipsychotic medication used to treat various mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and certain symptoms of depression. While it’s not typically known to directly cause anxiety, some individuals may experience certain side effects while taking olanzapine that could potentially lead to feelings of anxiety or worsen existing anxiety symptoms.
Potential side effects of olanzapine that might indirectly contribute to feelings of anxiety include:
- Sedation or drowsiness: Olanzapine can cause drowsiness or sedation in some people. Feeling excessively tired or drowsy might lead to a sense of unease or contribute to feelings of anxiety, especially if it affects daily functioning or leads to difficulties in managing everyday tasks.
- Restlessness or agitation: Olanzapine, like other antipsychotic medications, can occasionally cause side effects such as restlessness, agitation, or akathisia (a feeling of inner restlessness). These symptoms might be mistaken for or contribute to feelings of anxiety.
- Changes in mood: Although olanzapine is primarily used to stabilize mood in certain mental health conditions, some individuals might experience changes in mood as a side effect. This could potentially include increased anxiety in some cases.
It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals might tolerate olanzapine well without any adverse effects on anxiety levels. Additionally, olanzapine can have different effects on different people, and individual responses to medication can vary significantly.
If you’re taking olanzapine and notice feelings of anxiety or if your anxiety symptoms worsen after starting the medication, it’s crucial to discuss these concerns with your prescribing healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms, consider potential contributing factors, and adjust your treatment plan if necessary to better manage any side effects. Never stop or change the dosage of a prescribed medication without consulting your healthcare professional first.