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Updated: Jul 7, 2026
13:13
Biochemical Measurement of Neonatal Hypoxia
Published on: August 24, 2011
Olanzapine plasma concentration in a newborn
W Aichhorn1, K Yazdi, K Kralovec
1Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, PMU Salzburg, Austria. w.aichhorn@salk.at
Journal of Psychopharmacology (Oxford, England)
|March 1, 2008
Summary
This case study examines olanzapine use during pregnancy, finding newborn plasma levels were one-third of maternal levels. The infant showed normal development in the first six months.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Limited data exists on antipsychotic use in pregnant individuals.
- Understanding medication transfer to the fetus is crucial for safe prescribing.
- Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic used for schizophrenia treatment.
Observation:
- A pregnant woman with schizophrenia was treated with olanzapine.
- Maternal and umbilical cord blood plasma levels of olanzapine were measured.
- Infant development was monitored for six months post-delivery.
Findings:
- Newborn plasma olanzapine levels were approximately one-third of maternal levels (11 ng/mL vs. 25-34 ng/mL).
- The fetus, delivery, and infant's first six months of development were normal.
- This suggests a potential lower risk of neonatal complications with olanzapine.
Implications:
- These findings contribute to understanding olanzapine pharmacokinetics during pregnancy.
- Provides valuable data for clinicians managing schizophrenia in pregnant patients.
- Supports further research into the safety and efficacy of antipsychotics in pregnancy.
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