Zyprexa FAQs

What is Zyprexa?
Why did the FDA require a change to the Zyprexa® label?
What are the health risks associated with Zyprexa?
What are the drug interactions with Zyprexa?
What is the link between Zyprexa and diabetes?
What should I do if I have some of the symptoms associated with Zyprexa?
Has the manufacturer taken any steps to warn the public about the dangers of Zyprexa?
Is there a time limit on bringing a pharmaceutical malpractice or product liability claim?
Why should I contact a lawyer?

What is Zyprexa?

Zyprexa is an atypical antipsychotic prescribed to treat the symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. The active ingredient in Zyprexa, olanzapine, was developed by Eli Lilly & Co and in 1996 approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Zyprexa may be linked to diabetes, hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar levels), and diabetic ketoacidosis (a potentially fatal complication of diabetes).

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Why did the FDA require a change to the Zyprexa® label?

In September 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ordered Eli Lilly to revise the Zyprexa® labeling and product information to inform doctors and patients that the use of Zyprexa® (and other SGAs) has been associated with an increased risk of glucose abnormalities and diabetes. On March 1, 2004, Eli Lilly issued a "Dear Doctor" letter to individual physicians in which it informed doctors of the increased risk of hyperglycemia and diabetes in patients taking Zyprexa® and described the label changes.

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What health risks are associated with Zyprexa?

Zyprexa and other antipsychotic medications can cause serious problems such as:

• Since Zyprexa disturbs the delicate metabolism and insulin balance, several different types of diabetic side effects can occur. These include diabetes Mellitus, diabetes ketoacidosis, diabetic coma, and diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome.
• A life-threatening nervous system problem called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). NMS can cause a high fever, stiff muscles, sweating, a fast or irregular heart beat, change in blood pressure, and confusion. NMS can affect your kidneys. NMS is a medical emergency. Call your healthcare professional right away if you experience these symptoms.
• Strokes have happened in older patients treated for Alzheimer’s disease and from dementia. Zyprexa is not approved for this use, but had been prescribed for this “off-label’ use by physicians.
• Other Zyprexa side effects include low blood pressure which can cause dizziness and possibly fainting; increased heart beat; seizures; liver problems; increased body temperature; and difficulty swallowing.
• The most common Zyprexa side effects include sleepiness, dry mouth, dizziness, restlessness, constipation, upset stomach, weight gain, increased appetite, and tremor.

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What are the drug interactions with Zyprexa?

You should always inform your doctor and your pharmacist about all medications you take (including over-the-counter) before being prescribed Zyprexa. Zyprexa may increase the effects of medicines that are used to control high blood pressure. This could lead to very low blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting. Zyprexa may also increase the effects of drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, muscle relaxants, and any other drug that makes you feel sleepy or relaxed. Zyprexa may decrease the effects of drugs used to treat Parkinson's disease; this could lead to worsening Parkinson’s symptoms.

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What is the link between Zyprexa and diabetes?

Zyprexa has been linked to the early onset of diabetes, hyperglycemia, or other diabetes-related complications that can result in coma or death.

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What should I do if I have some of the symptoms associated with Zyprexa?

If you, or a loved one has experienced any of the symptoms related to Zyprexa or suspect you might have a glucose abnormality, you should consult with a physician promptly. Zyprexa has been approved by the FDA, and it can be dangerous to stop taking Zyprexa immediately.

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Has the manufacturer taken any steps to warn the public about the dangers of Zyprexa?

The drug manufacturer, Eli Lilly & Company, has acknowledged the dangerous Zyprexa side effects and the substantial management difficulties associated with Zyprexa use. The manufacturer admits that the drug is only approved for short-term treatment of schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder. The manufacturer has recently agreed to settle a class action lawsuit that was files on behalf of injured Zyprexa users. However, there are still many Zyprexa users that are not included in that settlement.

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Is there a time limit on bringing a pharmaceutical malpractice or product liability claim?

Yes. Each state has its own statute of limitations establishing a deadline to pursue a claim. These limits vary greatly from state to state. Therefore, if you suspect that you may have a potential case, do not wait to consult an experienced Zyprexa lawyer.

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Why should I contact a lawyer?

The legal system can provide compensation for people victimized by the conduct of negligent drug manufacturers and other responsible parties. When an otherwise preventable serious injury or death occurs from the use of any prescription medication, a Zyprexa lawyer may provide the means to obtain compensatory and/or punitive damages. If you, or a loved one has experienced any of the adverse side effects associated with Zyprexa, contact Zyprexa lawyer today.

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Zyprexa Lawyers

If you believe that you or a loved one has suffered an injury or death as a result of Zyprexa call the Zyprexa lawyers of VanDerGinst Law. P.C. at (877) 786-1LAW (877-786-1529) or submit the free online case evaluation. The initial consultation is free of charge. If we agree to handle your Zyprexa case, we will work on a contingency fee basis, which means we get paid for our services only if, and when, there is a money recovery for you. In many cases a lawsuit must be filed before an applicable expiration date, known as a statute of limitations. So please contact our Zyprexa lawyers right away to ensure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation. We can tell you if you have a case for a potential Zyprexa lawsuit.