A patient with bipolar disorder, mania, relapsed after discontinuing lithium. The health care provider prescribes lithium 600 mg BID and olanzapine (Zyprexa) 10 mg BID. What is the rationale for addition of olanzapine to the lithium regime? It will:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Bring hyperactivity under rapid control.
Rationale:
1. Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic known for its rapid onset of action in controlling manic symptoms, including hyperactivity.
2. Lithium alone may take time to reach therapeutic levels and show efficacy, while olanzapine can provide more immediate relief.
3. Combining olanzapine with lithium can address acute manic symptoms effectively and quickly.
4. Choice A is incorrect because olanzapine does not specifically minimize lithium's side effects.
5. Choice C is incorrect as olanzapine does not directly potentiate lithium's antimanic action.
6. Choice D is incorrect because olanzapine is typically used for acute symptom management rather than long-term control.