Olanzapine and Fluoxetine Side Effects

Drowsiness and weight gain are among the common olanzapine and fluoxetine side effects. Those that are less common include hair loss, anemia, and arthritis. In most cases, side effects are minor and easily treated. However, you should notify your healthcare provider immediately if you develop more serious side effects of olanzapine and fluoxetine, such as abnormal muscle movements, a large or rapid weight gain, and suicidal thoughts or behavior.

Olanzapine and Fluoxetine (Symbyax)

An Introduction to Olanzapine and Fluoxetine Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with olanzapine and fluoxetine (Symbyax^®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.

(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with olanzapine and fluoxetine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of olanzapine and fluoxetine side effects with you.)

Common Olanzapine and Fluoxetine Side Effects

Olanzapine and fluoxetine has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials.

In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and then compared to the side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.

In these studies, the most common olanzapine and fluoxetine side effects included:

Increased triglycerides -- in up to 67.8 percent of people
Increased cholesterol levels -- up to 35 percent
Weight gain -- up to 25 percent (see Symbyax and Weight Gain)
Increased appetite -- up to 20 percent
Dry mouth -- up to 15 percent (see Symbyax and Dry Mouth)
Drowsiness -- up to 14 percent
Fatigue -- up to 12 percent.

Some other common side effects of olanzapine and fluoxetine (occurring in 2 to 9 percent of people) included:

Blurred vision
Gas
Abdominal bloating
Swelling or water retention in the arms, legs, hands, or feet
General water retention or swelling
Pain
Fever
Joint pain
Arm or leg pain
Shakiness (tremors)
Problems maintaining attention
Lethargy
Restlessness
Abnormal thinking
Nervousness
Sexual problems (see Symbyax Sexual Side Effects).

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