Safety profile and adverse effects of use of olanzapine in pregnancy: A report of two cases

Women with schizophrenia have a high risk for symptom exacerbation or relapse during pregnancy and thereafter. Relapses are more frequent when antipsychotics are discontinued. Continuation of antipsychotic during pregnancy has become common and olanzapine is commonly prescribed antipsychotic. It is very important to know the safety profile of olanzapine in Indian settings. Aim of our paper is to report two cases of olanzapine use pregnancy, discuss its safety profile, and adverse effects on mother and foetus. In both of our cases, olanzapine was continued throughout pregnancy and the patients remain clinically stable as per psychiatric symptoms. In case 1 whole antinatal and perinatal period was normal except patient has oligohydramnios and low birthweight baby and in case 2 she had oligohydramnios and large baby. Our cases add to the safely data of use of olanzapine in pregnancy, particularly in Indian settings. While conclusive elucidation still awaits more such reports from India and well-controlled studies.