Olanzapine-induced paraesthesia: A less reported side effect

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. Despite proven efficacy in these disorders, it can cause various side effects, including occurrences of paraesthesia-a sensory disorder characterized by spontaneous itching or tingling without external triggers. The mechanism behind olanzapine-induced paraesthesia is not well understood but may involve dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptor antagonism. Here, we report two cases of severe paraesthesia that occurred as a side effect of olanzapine therapy, which improved after discontinuing the medication in the first case and by reducing the dose in the second case.