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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 15, 2026

Handwriting Analysis Indicates Spontaneous Dyskinesias in Neuroleptic Naïve Adolescents at High Risk for Psychosis

Handwriting Analysis Indicates Spontaneous Dyskinesias in Neuroleptic Naïve Adolescents at High Risk for Psychosis

Published on: November 21, 2013

Olanzapine abuse.

Neslihan Akkişi Kumsar¹, Atila Erol

¹Psychiatry Clinic, Sakarya University Training and Research Hospital, Korucuk Campus, Sakarya, Turkey. drneslihanakkisi@yahoo.com

Substance Abuse

|January 19, 2013

Summary

This case report details a rare instance of olanzapine abuse in a patient experiencing withdrawal symptoms. The findings highlight the potential for dependence on this atypical antipsychotic, even when prescribed for other conditions.

Area of Science:

Psychiatry
Pharmacology

Background:

Olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic, acts on multiple neurotransmitter receptors including serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine.
While effective for conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, its abuse potential is less understood.
Previous literature documents only two cases of olanzapine abuse.

Observation:

A 48-year-old woman presented with tachycardia, insomnia, and anxiety, using citalopram and olanzapine daily for 3 years.
She reported severe discomfort, anxiety, and nervousness upon olanzapine withdrawal, leading to continued use.
Diabetes mellitus was diagnosed, prompting olanzapine discontinuation, which precipitated withdrawal symptoms.

Findings:

The patient exhibited dependence on olanzapine, unable to discontinue due to severe withdrawal symptoms.

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Last Updated: May 15, 2026

Handwriting Analysis Indicates Spontaneous Dyskinesias in Neuroleptic Naïve Adolescents at High Risk for Psychosis

Handwriting Analysis Indicates Spontaneous Dyskinesias in Neuroleptic Naïve Adolescents at High Risk for Psychosis

Published on: November 21, 2013

This case adds to the limited literature on olanzapine abuse, suggesting a potential for substance use disorder.

Implications:

Clinicians should be vigilant for potential olanzapine abuse and dependence, even with atypical antipsychotics.
Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and prevalence of olanzapine abuse.
Recognizing and managing olanzapine withdrawal is crucial for patient care.