Olanzapina, 26 years old: Current situation, knowledge, attitudes and practices of use among Spanish psychiatrists

Abstract

Olanzapine, a second-generation antipsychotic marketed in Europe since late 1996, continues to be one of the most widely used molecules in Spain today. However, its high rate of adverse metabolic events and its use in some clinical settings are still controversial. The objective of this study was to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of use of this medication among Spanish psychiatrists. A self-filled questionnaire was designed and distributed. Dosage, experience, and trends of use in different contexts were explored, as well as future expectations. Data were tabulated and a descriptive analysis was performed. 129 practicing psychiatrists throughout the Spanish territory participated in the study, with an average age of 45.46 years (SD = 9.57) and a female: male ratio of 1.04:1. After more than 25 years on the market, Olanzapine continues to be an antipsychotic widely used in different clinical settings, both in Schizophrenia and other mental disorders (preferably at doses between 5 and 10 mg/day). Spanish psychiatrists are familiar with the need to establish pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies for the metabolic control of patients using this drug.