Overview
Symbyax is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of acute depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder and for treatment-resistant depression (depression that has not responded to other treatments). Symbyax is also known by its drug names, olanzapine and fluoxetine.

Symbyax is a combination of an atypical antipsychotic and a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Scientists believe it works by balancing brain chemicals: Olanzapine helps regulate dopamine and serotonin activity, while fluoxetine increases serotonin levels, which may improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Symbyax is taken orally as a capsule once daily in the evening. Treatment typically begins with a once-daily dose, which may be increased based on response and tolerability. The medication should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Symbyax include sedation (sleepiness), weight gain, increased appetite, dry mouth, fatigue, edema (swelling), tremor, disturbance in attention, and blurred vision.

Rare but serious side effects may include suicidal thoughts or behaviors, neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a life-threatening reaction with fever and muscle rigidity), Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), metabolic changes including hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol levels), and significant weight gain, serotonin syndrome (a potentially dangerous buildup of serotonin), angle-closure glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye), allergic reactions and rash, activation of mania or hypomania (elevated mood states), tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements), orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure upon standing) with possible bradycardia (slow heart rate) and syncope (fainting), leukopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis (low white blood cell counts), seizures, increased risk of bleeding, hyponatremia (low sodium levels), cognitive and motor impairment, QT prolongation (abnormal heart rhythm) including torsade de pointes, anticholinergic effects (such as urinary retention and constipation), hyperprolactinemia (elevated prolactin levels), and sexual dysfunction.

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Symbyax (Olanzapine and Fluoxetine) Capsules for Oral Use — Eli Lilly