There has been research that links Olanzapine as a cause for gynecomastia, or more commonly termed as man boobs. What is gynecomastia? It is breast tissue swelling in men or boys and is caused by an imbalance of testosterone and estrogen. The condition, although sometimes unevenly, can affect both breasts.
While other causes for gynecomastia exist, infants, boys undergoing puberty, and older adult men can develop gynecomastia from the hormone levels’ normal changes.
Causes
While man boobs are triggered by the decrease of the hormone testosterone, the hormonal balance upset can be caused by various factors. More than half of infant males have enlarged breasts because of the mother’s estrogen. However, gynecomastia goes away within two weeks from birth.
In puberty, gynecomastia is caused by hormonal changes. In six months to two years, the condition would go away with no treatment. In adults, the prevalence of gynecomastia peaks in men from the ages of 50 to 80. In the age bracket, at least one in four men is affected.
Medications that Cause Gynecomastia
Does Olanzapine (Zydis, Zyprexa Relprevv) cause gynecomastia? Well, the answer’s yes. However, do take note that taking other medications, such as the ones listed below, could also trigger the condition.
•Anti-androgens for conditions like prostate cancer and prostate enlargement
•Androgens and anabolic steroids
•Medication for AIDS. Men with HIV can develop the condition if they take HIV treatment like Efavirenz (Sustiva)
•Antibiotics
•Tricyclic antidepressants
•Anti-anxiety meds like Valium (diazepam)
•Ulcer medications like Tagamet (cimetidine)
•Chemotherapy
•Heart medications like calcium channel blockers and Lanoxin (digoxin)
Aside from medications like olanzapine (Zydis and Zyprexa Relprevv), substances like amphetamines, alcohol, heroin, marijuana, and methadone can cause man boobs.
Some health conditions can that cause gynecomastia (since they affect hormonal balance) are aging, hypergonadism, tumors, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism, liver cirrhosis, liver failure, starvation, and malnutrition. Even herbal products like lavender or tea tree in soaps, shampoos, or lotions have been linked to gynecomastia.
Treatment
Many gynecomastia cases clear up over time without treatment. In cases where the condition needs treatment, some medicines for breast cancer like raloxifene (Evista) and tamoxifen (Soltamox) can help men with man boobs. If you may still have visible, bothersome, and embarrassingly large breasts, your doctor may prescribe surgery.
Liposuction and mastectomy are two common surgical options. Liposuction is all about the removal of breast fat, and does not involve the breast’s gland tissue. Mastectomy removes the breast gland tissue and it is endoscopically done, which means the procedure is non-invasive as small incisions are needed. Mastectomy also requires less recovery time.
Conclusion
Does Olanzapine (Zydis, Zyprexa Relprevv) cause gynecomastia? Studies suggest it does. While the antipsychotic can contribute to the development of gynecomastia, other medications can cause it as well.
In adult males, gynecomastia can be prevented. You should not use illegal substances like marijuana, heroin, amphetamines, and androgens. You should not also drink alcohol. If it can’t be helped, drink moderately. Check your medications, too. If you are taking meds that are linked to gynecomastia, seek your doctor’s help for possible alternatives. When you have addressed such concerns, you may have prevented or cured gynecomastia.
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