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olanzapine/fluoxetine - oral, Symbyax

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GENERIC NAME: OLANZAPINE/FLUOXETINE - ORAL (oh-LAN-zuh-peen/flew-OX-eh-teen)

BRAND NAME(S): Symbyax

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, studies have shown that a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. Therefore, it is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition.

Tell the doctor immediately if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.

There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (e.g., stroke, heart failure) when this medication is used in elderly patients with dementia. This medication is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems.

USES: This medication is a combination of 2 drugs, olanzapine (an antipsychotic drug) and fluoxetine (a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor-SSRI). It is used to treat a certain type of mental/mood disorder (depression associated with bipolar disorder). It is also used to treat depression that has not responded to other medications. This medication may help you sleep, improve your mood, improve your concentration, and decrease nervousness. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain (neurotransmitters).Talk to the doctor about the risks and benefits of treatment (especially when used in teenagers). See also Precautions section.

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