Will Lybalvi trigger a false positive for opioids?

Yes, Lybalvi (olanzapine and samidorphan) can cause a false positive urine test result for opioids on certain tests used for detecting opioids. Specifically, urinary immunoassay methods are not reliable for detecting opioids in patients taking Lybalvi. The manufacturer recommends using an alternative test for opioids if you are taking Lybavli, such as chromatographic methods.

Is Lybalvi an Opioid?

No, Lybalvi is not an opioid. It contains:

• Olanzapine – an antipsychotic medication.
• Samidorphan – an opioid antagonist that blocks opioid receptors rather than activating them.

How Long Does Lybalvi Stay in Your System?

Lybalvi takes approximately 11 days to be fully eliminated from the body. It contains two active ingredients with different elimination times:

• Olanzapine: Half-life of 32–55 hours
• Samidorphan: Half-life of 7–11 hours

A half-life refers to the time required for half of the drug to leave the bloodstream. Samidorphan clears from the body within 2–3 days, while olanzapine takes longer.

Can I Take Lybalvi If I Am Taking an Opioid?

No, you should not take Lybalvi if you are currently taking an opioid. This is because one of the active ingredients in Lybalvi, samidorphan, is an opioid antagonist. It can cause opioid withdrawal in people who are taking opioids.

To safely start Lybalvi:

• Wait 7 days after stopping short-acting opioids.
• Wait 14 days after stopping long-acting opioids.

Consult your doctor before making any medication changes.

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Is Lybalvi a Controlled Substance?

No, Lybalvi is not classified as a controlled substance. It does not have a known risk of abuse, addiction, or dependence.

Does Lybalvi Cause Opioid Withdrawal?

Yes, Lybalvi can cause opioid withdrawal if taken while opioids are still in your system. Samidorphan blocks opioid receptors, preventing opioids from working and leading to withdrawal symptoms. In severe cases, withdrawal can require hospitalization.

To avoid this, opioid medications must be stopped before starting Lybalvi. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Am I More Likely to Overdose on Opioids If I Take Lybalvi?

If you were previously taking opioids long-term while taking Lybalvi, you may be more sensitive to treatment with opioids when you stop taking Lybalvi. This can raise your risk of an opioid overdose.

To reduce overdose risk:

• Work closely with a doctor when resuming opioid therapy.
• Start with a lower dose than what was used before taking Lybalvi.

This is not all the information you need to know about Lybalvi (olanzapine and samidorphan) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.