Zyprexa is one of the stronger atypical antipsychotics. It's one of the best known for weight gain, metabolic disturbances, and it has very strong sedative qualities. Some pdocs do not like to keep patients on Zyprexa long term because of the side effects including risk of diabetes and body temperature regulation ( neuroleptic malignant syndrome ).

When I am manic my pdoc works me up to a high dose but I've had to go over the recommended highest dose to stabilize. At that dose the side effects are unbearable. I feel pretty much like a vegetable. It does work tho. There is Zydis Zyprexa which is said to cause less weight gain. It's a wafer that melts in the mouth, and here in Canada costs even more than Zyprexa. I found the side effects of Zydis Zyprexa more manageable. The extra cost might be worth it if any of you are considering Zyprexa.

Some dr's are prescribing antipsychotics with little care, for almost anything. These drugs are handed out more casually than ever before. They have serious risks involved and major side effects. Just a word of caution, I think the medical community needs to dial back the use of these drugs and appreciate that these are very strong medications. I do see their use and helpfulness when dealing with bipolar. I just wish dr's were more informative when it comes to the risks associated with these meds.