Important Information on Updated
ZYPREXA® (olanzapine) Packaging
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Medication dispensing and prescribing errors have occurred between ZYPREXA and Zyrtec® (cetirizine HCl). These errors could result in unnecessary adverse events or potential relapse in patients suffering from schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. To reduce the potential for medication errors, please write ZYPREXA clearly.
The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) recommends that products with look-alike names that have had reports of medication errors, such as ZYPREXA and Zyrtec, be stored in different locations.* The ISMP also recommends that prescribers print both the brand and generic names of medication on all prescriptions. Furthermore, they recommend that healthcare professionals remember to discuss medications, their indications, and their proper use when counseling patients. Additional information on medication errors and good prescribing and dispensing practices in various healthcare settings can be found at the ISMP Web site, www.ismp.org.
To view a letter sent by Eli Lilly and Company to healthcare professionals regarding these errors, click here.
