Olanzapine and Smoking Cessation: Can It Help You Quit?

Olanzapine and Smoking Cessation: Can It Help You Quit?

May, 12 2023

Introduction to Olanzapine and Its Effects

In this section, we will discuss what Olanzapine is and its potential effects on the human body. Olanzapine, also known as Zyprexa, is an atypical antipsychotic medication used primarily to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It works by balancing various neurotransmitters in the brain, which helps to stabilize mood and prevent episodes of mania or psychosis. However, recent studies have suggested that Olanzapine may also have an impact on smoking cessation, leading to the question: Can it help you quit smoking?

Understanding the Connection Between Mental Health and Smoking

Before diving into the relationship between Olanzapine and smoking cessation, it is important to understand the connection between mental health and smoking. Individuals with mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, are more likely to smoke cigarettes than the general population. Furthermore, quitting smoking can be particularly challenging for those with mental health issues, as nicotine may temporarily alleviate certain symptoms or help to cope with stress and anxiety.


Given this connection, it is crucial to explore potential treatments that can aid in smoking cessation for individuals with mental health disorders. This is where Olanzapine comes into the picture, as it may offer a unique solution to help these individuals quit smoking.

How Olanzapine May Help with Smoking Cessation

Research has suggested that Olanzapine may be helpful in smoking cessation due to its effects on dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. Nicotine increases the release of dopamine, which is responsible for the rewarding and reinforcing effects of smoking. When an individual quits smoking, this results in a drop in dopamine levels, leading to withdrawal symptoms and cravings.


Olanzapine has been found to increase dopamine levels in certain areas of the brain, which may help to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for cigarettes. Additionally, Olanzapine's impact on serotonin levels may also play a role in smoking cessation, as serotonin is involved in mood regulation and feelings of well-being.

Studies on Olanzapine and Smoking Cessation

Several studies have been conducted to explore the potential benefits of Olanzapine for smoking cessation. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, researchers found that Olanzapine significantly reduced cigarette cravings and withdrawal symptoms in individuals with schizophrenia who were attempting to quit smoking. Furthermore, participants in this study who received Olanzapine were more likely to maintain abstinence from smoking at the end of the study period compared to those who received a placebo.


Another study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found similar results, with Olanzapine significantly reducing cigarette cravings and increasing abstinence rates in individuals with schizophrenia. These findings suggest that Olanzapine may be a promising treatment option for smoking cessation, particularly for individuals with mental health disorders.

Side Effects of Olanzapine to Consider

While Olanzapine may prove to be beneficial for smoking cessation, it is important to consider its potential side effects as well. Common side effects of Olanzapine include dizziness, drowsiness, weight gain, and increased appetite. In some cases, Olanzapine may also cause more serious side effects, such as an increased risk of diabetes or high cholesterol.


It is crucial to have a thorough discussion with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of Olanzapine for smoking cessation, particularly if you have a history of diabetes, high cholesterol, or other medical concerns.

Combining Olanzapine with Other Smoking Cessation Treatments

Olanzapine may be most effective for smoking cessation when used in combination with other treatments, such as nicotine replacement therapy or behavioral counseling. This multi-pronged approach can help to address both the physical and psychological aspects of quitting smoking, increasing the likelihood of success.


When considering Olanzapine for smoking cessation, it is important to work closely with your doctor to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that takes into account your individual needs and circumstances.

Alternative Medications for Smoking Cessation

If Olanzapine is not suitable for you or you are concerned about potential side effects, there are other medications available that can aid in smoking cessation. Bupropion (Zyban) and varenicline (Chantix) are two FDA-approved medications specifically designed to help individuals quit smoking. Both of these medications have been shown to be effective in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, as well as increasing abstinence rates.


Again, it is crucial to discuss your options with your doctor to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Conclusion: Olanzapine as a Potential Aid for Smoking Cessation

In conclusion, Olanzapine may offer a promising solution for individuals struggling to quit smoking, particularly those with mental health disorders such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Its potential benefits stem from its effects on dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain, which may help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. However, it is important to carefully consider the potential side effects of Olanzapine and discuss your options with your doctor before pursuing this treatment option.


With the right combination of treatments and support, quitting smoking is possible, and Olanzapine may be one piece of the puzzle that can help you on your journey to a smoke-free life.

7 Comments

  • Image placeholder

    VEER Design

    May 13, 2023 AT 06:00
    Man, I never thought olanzapine could be a secret weapon against cigarettes. I’ve seen folks in my village smoke like chimneys after a psychotic break-like their lungs were just another outlet for the chaos inside. If this med can quiet the cravings AND the voices? That’s next-level stuff. Not saying it’s magic, but damn, maybe the brain’s reward system isn’t as broken as we thought.

    Still, weight gain? I’ve seen guys on Zyprexa turn into soft tacos. One buddy gained 80 lbs in 6 months and said, 'At least I don’t want a smoke anymore.' Kinda tragic, kinda poetic.
  • Image placeholder

    Leslie Ezelle

    May 13, 2023 AT 22:00
    I work in psych units and let me tell you-this is the most important thing I’ve seen all year. I had a patient who smoked 3 packs a day, couldn’t sleep, was paranoid, and then we tried olanzapine. Three weeks in? She didn’t touch a cigarette. Not one. Her eyes cleared up. She started painting again. This isn’t just pharmacology-it’s soul medicine. The side effects? Yes, they’re real. But so is the suffering of someone who can’t quit because their brain is wired wrong. Stop acting like side effects are a dealbreaker when the alternative is death by nicotine.
  • Image placeholder

    Dilip p

    May 15, 2023 AT 11:31
    The mechanism described here is scientifically sound. Olanzapine’s partial agonism at 5-HT2A and D2 receptors modulates dopamine release in the mesolimbic pathway, which directly counteracts the dopaminergic surge induced by nicotine. This is not anecdotal-it’s neuropharmacology. However, the studies cited are limited to populations with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Extrapolating these results to the general smoking population is premature. Also, the weight gain associated with olanzapine is mediated by histamine H1 receptor antagonism, which increases appetite and reduces metabolic rate. This is not trivial-it can exacerbate metabolic syndrome. Use with caution, and always pair with nutritional counseling.
  • Image placeholder

    Kathleen Root-Bunten

    May 17, 2023 AT 09:02
    I’m really curious-has anyone tried combining olanzapine with varenicline? Like, would that be too much for the brain? Or would it be synergistic? I know both affect dopamine, but in different ways. Also, what about people who don’t have psychosis but still struggle with quitting? Could this work for them too? I’m just trying to understand the boundaries of this. Not trying to shoot it down-just wondering if the door is open wider than we think.
  • Image placeholder

    Vivian Chan

    May 18, 2023 AT 11:04
    Let’s be real. Big Pharma didn’t suddenly care about smokers. They’ve been pushing olanzapine for decades because it’s profitable. Now they’re slapping on a ‘quit smoking’ label? That’s not science-that’s marketing. Who funded those studies? Who owns the patents? And why are they not pushing this as a first-line treatment if it’s so effective? Something smells like a lab coat full of corporate grease. Also, if this works, why aren’t they giving it away for free to low-income smokers? Hmm.
  • Image placeholder

    andrew garcia

    May 19, 2023 AT 03:34
    I’m just a guy who quit smoking 5 years ago, but I’ve watched my cousin go through hell trying. He’s got bipolar and smoked to calm his nerves. When he started olanzapine, he cried because he said, 'I finally feel like me again-without a cigarette in my hand.' That’s worth more than any study. I know side effects are scary, but sometimes the cure is weirder than the disease. 🤍
  • Image placeholder

    ANTHONY MOORE

    May 19, 2023 AT 21:53
    This is the kind of post that makes me feel like we’re finally getting somewhere. Not just throwing pills at people and hoping it sticks. We’re actually looking at the brain, the behavior, the whole mess. I’ve had patients who said, 'I don’t want to quit-I just want to feel normal.' And olanzapine? For some, it gives them that. Doesn’t fix everything. But it gives space to try. I tell my clients: quit smoking isn’t about willpower. It’s about rewiring. And if a med helps you rewire without turning you into a zombie? That’s a win.

Write a comment