I have started taking Olanzapine and I am so thirsty

Olanzapine in its generic form called zyprexa - Olanzapine is a novel antipsychotic used to treat psychoses including schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder, and acute manic episodes
@linda345 (2661)
Canada
February 20, 2007 8:10pm CST
I have started taking olanzapine for my bipolar and I can't quench my thirst. It is driving me insane. Juice, pop, water,nothing is working. Has anyone else taken this drug? It is known as the fat pill. I feel better since I have been on it but the thirst is killing me. Help??????
2 people like this
4 responses
@maribel1218 (3085)
• Philippines
21 Feb 07
Hi Linda I've studied medical transcriptionist and we encounter bipolar disorder and the medications associated to it. I really advise you to ell your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms while you are taking olanzapine: extreme thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, blurred vision, or weakness. It is very important to call your doctor as soon as you have any of these symptoms, because high blood sugar can cause more serious symptoms, such as dry mouth, upset stomach and vomiting, shortness of breath, breath that smells fruity, or decreased consciousness, and may become life-threatening if it is not treated at an early stage. Please call him now and tell me what happen afterwards okay. Take care my friend.
1 person likes this
@linda345 (2661)
• Canada
21 Feb 07
I calle the pharamist and he said that the thirst can be common for the first 2 weeks. If it continues or gets to be real bothersome I have to contact the doctor. I haven't been eating much the last few days because all I do is drink.
1 person likes this
@blueskies (1186)
• United States
21 Feb 07
One last thing, are you aware of water intoxication? It can be fatal and is caused by drinking too much water. Just be sure to drink some other things that contain sodium, in addition to or instead of some of the water. Gatoraid is wonderful.
2 people like this
• Philippines
21 Feb 07
I really do agree with bluskies gatorade is good instead of water alone and try to eat too.
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@blueskies (1186)
• United States
21 Feb 07
Linda, how long have you been taking the medication? I was reading the indications and it says that it can cause hyperglycemia, which is blood sugar spikes. This spike in blood sugar can cause excessive thirst. Please call your doctor, just so he can rule this out. I would hate to see you wind up with diabetes from a medication that is supposed to make you feel better. {hugs}
@linda345 (2661)
• Canada
21 Feb 07
I just called the pharmist. Thirst was listed as a side effect on the sheet they give you with the medication. He said it can be an effect. If it doesn't go away after 2 weeks to call the doctor. I see him in a week anyway.
@linda345 (2661)
• Canada
21 Feb 07
Thanks for looking it up.
@blueskies (1186)
• United States
21 Feb 07
Thanks for letting me know. I was worried. I hope the thirst goes away, as expected. Good luck :)
1 person likes this
@crickethear (1417)
• United States
21 Feb 07
I haven't taken it, but maybe it is just one of those side affects until your body becomes accustomed. I would contact your doctor, and or pharmacy.
1 person likes this
@linda345 (2661)
• Canada
21 Feb 07
I am pretty sure it is a side effect I just was hoping someone would have an idea of something i could try to drink that would quench my thrist.
• Philippines
23 Feb 07
Why not try alkaline water? Although you need a machine to make this. Or if you know someone who has a machine like this, you can ask for a favor. Alkaline water hydrates, maybe the thirst you're experiencing is borne out of being dehydrated. It is also a good substitute for oral rehydration pills. Don't drink distilled water or purified water, they are acidic in nature and might add to your thirst. Sodas also are a no-no, and so are juices that are too sweet, they are guaranteed to make you more thirsty. If you can't get hold of alkaline water, try to drink bottled 'mineral water', those taken from natural springs as they are slightly alkaline. Hope this helps.
@linda345 (2661)
• Canada
23 Feb 07
Actually, I love Perrier water with lime. I am going to buy a case this weekend.