Early experience of the use of olanzapine across three rehabilitation services

Abstract

Aims and method. To monitor the effect of the introduction of olanzapine under naturalistic conditions to patients with severe and enduring mental illness in three rehabilitation services. Results. Thirty patients were prescribed olanzapine during the first six months of its launch. Objective ratings were used. Six months later, one-third were no longer on treatment, one-third were unchanged and one-third had made useful clinical gains. Clinical implications. Patients who have suffered from neurological or prolactin-related side-effects may benefit from treatment with olanzapine. Attitudes to treatment and adherence may improve.