Clinical practice and metabolic consequences of olanzapine use in schizophrenia: results from a national survey in Spain

Abstract

Background and objectives

Schizophrenia is a psychiatric disorder with a global crude prevalence of approximately 23.6 million individuals and ranks among the top ten leading causes of disability worldwide. Antipsychotic medications, including olanzapine (Zyprexa), represent the most effective treatment option for these patients. This study aimed to assess the current prescribing patterns of olanzapine (Zyprexa).

Methods

To explore real-world prescribing patterns of olanzapine (Zyprexa), patient adherence, and the perceived incidence of adverse effects—especially metabolic syndrome—a structured, purpose-designed survey was distributed to psychiatrists across Spain.

Results

A total of 197 Consultant psychiatrists practising in Spain responded to a survey on olanzapine (Zyprexa) use patterns. olanzapine (Zyprexa) was noted for its high efficacy, rapid onset of action, and tolerability. The majority of psychiatrists (77.8 %) reported prescribing olanzapine (Zyprexa) primarily to patients aged 31–50 years. Regarding metabolic syndrome, out of 111 responses, 60.4 % (66 psychiatrists) considered olanzapine (Zyprexa) to be associated with a higher incidence of metabolic syndrome, which was reported to occur predominantly at an early stage (61.3 %).

Conclusions

Treatment adherence to olanzapine (Zyprexa) may be negatively affected by adverse events such as weight gain and the development of metabolic syndrome, which could serve as causal factors for treatment discontinuation. The implementation of both pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies aimed at metabolic control may play a key role in optimizing the therapeutic management of schizophrenia.