Olanizapine orally-disintegrating tablet in severe psychotic agitation: a naturalistic study

Abstract

Introduction. This study was conducted to determine effectiveness and safety of olanzapine in patients with severe agitation.

Method. A naturalistic, open-label study in 80 acutely agitated psychotic patients visited in our psychiatric emergency department. Patients received either a 20-mg olanzapine orally-disintegrating tablet or conventional treatment depending on attending psychiatrist's preference. Efficacy was assessed by the Excitement Component of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS-EC), the Agitation-Calmness Evaluation Scale (ACES) and pragmatic variables (second pharmacological intervention and need for physical restraints).

Results: 60% patients completed a 6 hour trial. Both groups showed a significant reduction in mean PANSS-EC score. The olanzapine-treated group showed statistically significant improvements: PANSS-EC (F=122.9; df=2.4; p=0.
), ACES (F=68.2; df=2.8; p=0.). Treatment was well-tolerated and no serious side-effects were observed.

Conclusions. In this naturalistic study in patients with severe agitation, 20-mg oral olanzapine was effective, rapid and safe.