Zyprexa Side Effects

Zyprexa’s initial appeal was that it demonstrated fewer occurrences of expected side effects, such as muscle coordination, movement, and allergic reactions. Unfortunately, Zyprexa elevated risks of stroke, diabetes, and weight gain. Although these were serious drawbacks, the Food and Drug Administration approved Zyprexa in 1996.

The greatest danger posed by Zyprexa is the risk of side effects from the drug's many generalized uses. Even though its manufacturer, Eli Lilly & Co., specifically states that Zyprexa is designed to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorders, many doctors have prescribed it for conditions as diverse as anorexia nervosa and panic attacks. These so-called “off label uses” are not explicitly encouraged by Eli Lilly, but nevertheless boost the sales of Zyprexa.

Why the Side Effects Occur

The problem with Zyprexa is that it disrupts the body’s natural sensitivity to insulin, resulting in a condition called diabetes mellitus type II. By increasing insulin sensitivity of the body the amount of sugar increases, creating a condition known as hyperglycemia. With this excess sugar and no hormone to process it, the body begins to go into toxic shock which can then affect the cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic systems. As a result of these Zyprexa side effects, the Food and Drug Administration requires that all atypical antipsychotics such as Zyprexa display warning labels to notify users that these drugs have the potential to cause serious metabolic side effects including diabetes.

Diabetic Side Effects

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.

Diabetes Ketoacidosis results from a chain reaction caused by a disruption of the body’s insulin/glucose balance, which is a common Zyprexa side effect, occurring when Diabetes Mellitus runs unchecked and out of control. As a result of this, the liver eventually releases chemicals into the blood stream to power the brain, but such a drastic increase of these chemicals increases acidity. This acid combined with an overworked liver and too much glucose triggers an increase in kidney filtration. They attempt to filter out the excess chemicals in the bloodstream, which increases urination, resulting in dehydration. Dehydration exacerbates ketoacidoisis and begins a downward spiral of worsening health. As more fluid is lost from the body the condition worsens into a coma and eventual death.

Another potential Zyprexa side effect is Hyperosmolar Syndrome. This is an especially dangerous side effect because it is similar to benign conditions such as the flu. Since most people who take Zyprexa are unaware that there are significant risks of diabetic side effects, lack of warning and rapid onset of the syndrome pose immediate and serious health risks.

Pancreatic Side Effects

Zyprexa has been shown to cause significant damage to several pancreatic functions, including diminished insulin sensitivity and hyper-elevated blood sugar levels. These factors in combination with the metabolic alterations caused by Zyprexa irritate the pancreas and cause significant damage. This damage often results in a condition called acute pancreatitis, which potentially life threatening.

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas caused by drugs such as Zyprexa. Inflammation of the pancreas can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. Unfortunately, most victims mistake these symptoms for the flu, with dire consequences. Survival depends on prompt diagnosis and treatment, but because most people taking Zyprexa are unaware of the potential danger to their pancreas, they often ignore the symptoms until it is far too late.

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.