Is olanzapine a sleeping pill?

Olanzapine is not a sleeping pill, but it may cause drowsiness as a side effect. In this article, we will discuss the potential effects of olanzapine on sleep and the latest research on its use as a sleep aid.

Mechanism of Action

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication that is primarily used in the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Its mechanism of action involves blocking certain receptors in the brain, including dopamine and serotonin receptors, which can improve mood and reduce symptoms of psychosis. While olanzapine is not specifically designed as a sleeping pill, its sedative effects may help some individuals with sleep difficulties.

Potential Effects on Sleep

Olanzapine has been shown to have sedative effects in some individuals, which may help with sleep difficulties. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that olanzapine was effective in improving sleep quality in individuals with bipolar disorder. The study involved 94 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either olanzapine or placebo for 12 weeks. The researchers found that participants in the olanzapine group had significantly greater improvements in sleep quality compared to those in the placebo group.

However, olanzapine can also cause other side effects that may negatively impact sleep, such as weight gain and increased appetite. These side effects can lead to sleep-disordered breathing, such as obstructive sleep apnea, which can cause disruptions in sleep and lead to daytime sleepiness and fatigue.

Risks and Benefits

While olanzapine may have sedative effects that can improve sleep quality in some individuals, it is important to consider the potential risks and benefits of using it as a sleep aid. Olanzapine is a powerful medication that can cause significant side effects, including weight gain, metabolic changes, and increased risk of diabetes. It is also associated with an increased risk of developing movement disorders, such as tardive dyskinesia.

Furthermore, olanzapine is not specifically designed as a sleep aid and may not be effective for all individuals with sleep difficulties. Other medications, such as benzodiazepines or non-benzodiazepine sedatives, may be more appropriate for treating insomnia or other sleep disorders.

Conclusion

Olanzapine is not a sleeping pill, but it may cause drowsiness as a side effect. While olanzapine may have sedative effects that can help with sleep difficulties in some individuals, it is important to consider the potential risks and benefits of using it as a sleep aid. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of olanzapine with a healthcare professional before starting treatment. Other medications or therapies may be more appropriate for treating sleep difficulties, depending on the individual’s specific needs and medical history.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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