Can You Dissolve Olanzapine ODT In Liquid Instead Of On The Tongue?

Answer

Olanzapine (generic for Zyprexa) comes in a variety of dosage forms, including a 'regular' tablet and an 'orally disintegrating tablet', (ODT). I will be talking only about the ODT version of olanzapine in this answer.

Olanzapine ODT is a disintegrating tablet, designed to quickly disintegrate when it comes into contact with a liquid (like the saliva in your mouth).

The tablets theoretically can be placed in liquid, allowed to dissolve, and then the liquid immediately consumed. However, based on how you worded your question, it is important to point out that olanzapine ODT should not go under the tongue. It should be placed right on top and allowed to disintegrate.

How To Take Olanzapine ODT

I'm guessing you're asking this question because you've had some problems taking olanzapine ODT (olanzapine disintegrating tablet). If you are placing it under the tongue, instead of on top, I can see you having some issues.

The tablets are not intended to be absorbed sublingually, so placing it under the tongue will likely be a little irritating as you'll have some tablet remnants stuck under your tongue that you are eventually just going to swallow. All of the contents of the tablet do not completely dissolve.

Olanzapine ODT should be placed on the tongue and allowed to dissolve. Per the prescribing information for the drug:

Leave the disintegrating tablet in the foil package until ready to administer. Do not push the tablet through the blister pack. Peel open the package with dry hands and place the tablet on the tongue. The tablet will dissolve rapidly and be swallowed in the saliva. The tablet may be administered with fluid if needed, but it is not necessary to do so.

Alternative Administration Option

As mentioned, another option is to place an olanzapine ODT in a small glass of water or other liquid, allow it to disintegrate, then consume the liquid.

This method of administration isn't ideal since it can sometimes be difficult to consume the entire dose. It's not uncommon that some drug remnants are left in the bottom of your cup (or stuck to the sides).

The avoid this, after you place the tablet in the liquid and consume it, you should place a little more liquid in the cup, mix it with any remaining drug remnants, and drink again. Continue doing this until all of the drug is consumed.

Final Words

I hope you found this helpful! Reach back out anytime.