From the FDA Drug Label
Olanzapine may induce orthostatic hypotension associated with dizziness, tachycardia, bradycardia and, in some patients, syncope, especially during the initial dose-titration period, probably reflecting its α1-adrenergic antagonistic properties In an open-label clinical pharmacology study in nonagitated patients with schizophrenia in which the safety and tolerability of intramuscular olanzapine were evaluated under a maximal dosing regimen (three 10 mg doses administered 4 hours apart), approximately one-third of these patients experienced a significant orthostatic decrease in systolic blood pressure (i.e., decrease ≥30 mmHg) Tachycardia, was also reported during the clinical trials with intramuscular olanzapine for injection Olanzapine exhibits in vitro muscarinic receptor affinity. In premarketing clinical trials, Zyprexa was associated with constipation, dry mouth, and tachycardia, all adverse reactions possibly related to cholinergic antagonism
The combination of Olanzapine (Zyprexa) and Buspar may increase the risk of tachycardia due to the potential for additive effects on heart rate.
- Buspar can cause tachycardia as a side effect.
- Olanzapine may also induce orthostatic hypotension associated with dizziness, tachycardia, bradycardia, and syncope. It is essential to monitor patients for signs of orthostatic hypotension and tachycardia when using these medications together 1. Caution is necessary when administering Olanzapine with other drugs that can induce hypotension, bradycardia, respiratory, or central nervous system depression 1.
From the Research
It's not advisable to take olanzapine (Zyprexa) and buspirone (Buspar) if you have tachycardia without medical supervision. Both medications can potentially affect heart rate, with olanzapine sometimes causing tachycardia as a side effect 2. When combined, these medications might worsen your existing tachycardia condition. Additionally, there can be interactions between these medications that should be monitored by a healthcare provider.
Key Considerations
- Tachycardia is a condition that requires careful management to prevent complications such as heart failure, stroke, or even death.
- Olanzapine and buspirone can both impact heart rate, potentially exacerbating tachycardia.
- The use of beta-blockers, as discussed in studies 3, 4, 5, 6, may be beneficial in managing tachycardia, but their use must be carefully considered in the context of other medications like olanzapine and buspirone.
Recommendations
- If you're experiencing tachycardia (abnormally fast heart rate) and are taking or considering taking these medications, you should consult with your doctor immediately.
- Your doctor can evaluate your specific situation, possibly adjust dosages, recommend alternative medications, or monitor your heart function more closely.
- Investigating the underlying cause of your tachycardia is crucial, as this could influence treatment decisions.
- Never start, stop, or adjust medication without professional medical guidance, especially when dealing with conditions like tachycardia and medications that can affect heart rate.