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Atypical antipsychotic (anti-nausea mechanism unclear)

Olanzapine

Zyprexa

How it works

Dopamine antagonist; extremely effective for chemotherapy-induced nausea refractory to standard antiemetics.

Gold standard for breakthrough chemo nausea (MASCC/ESMO 2023 & ASCO 2020). 5–10 mg for 3 days in HEC; consider 2.5 mg in older / sedation-sensitive patients. Sedate effect useful for sleep. Weight gain manageable with dietitian support.

Dosing

Typical doses

  • 2.5–5 mg PO nocte

Schedule

  • D1–D3 evening (nocte) for nausea prevention
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Side Effects

  • Sedation, somnolence
  • Weight gain, increased appetite
  • Dizziness
  • Metabolic syndrome risk (hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia)

Monitoring

  • Blood glucose, lipid panel if on long-term olanzapine