What is Zyprexa?
Zyprexa (Olanzapine) is an anti-psychotic medication that was approved in 1996 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of schizophrenia. It is often prescribed for other problems such as anxiety and depression. Zyprexa is a member of a class of drugs commonly referred to as "second generation anti-psychotics" (SGA) or "atypical anti-psychotics." When Zyprexa was approved in 1996, there were 2 other such SGA medications already available on the market. Consequently, Zyprexa is considered a "me-too" drug, joining a class of existing medications prescribed for the treatment of common disorders.
The SGA's were developed as an alternative to the so-called "first generation anti-psychotics" (FGA). The SGA's were designed to be more effective in the treatment of anti-psychotic disorders with fewer of the side effects generally associated with the use of FGA's.
Of six SGA's currently available, Zyprexa is the most commonly prescribed. Zyprexa has been prescribed to more than 14 million people in 84 countries since its approval in 1996.
Zyprexa Side Effects
In September 2003, the FDA ordered Eli Lilly to revise Zyprexa's label by adding a side effects warning that "hyperglycemia, in some cases extreme and associated with ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar coma or death, has been reported in patients treated with atypical anti-psychotics." Among the more serious outcomes resulting from hyperglycemic abnormalities are diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, diabetic coma, pancreatits, and, in some cases death. Zyprexa weight gain is also a commonly reported side effect.
Please fill out our free Zyprexa case evaluation form if you have taken or are currently taking Zyprexa and have been diagnosed with Zyprexa side effects such as the glucose abnormalities listed below:
- Diabetes
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis
- Diabetic Coma
- Hyperosmolar Coma
- Pancreatits
Zyprexa News Archive
If you are currently taking Zyprexa and have concerns about its safety, you should consult with your doctor regarding your treatment options. Under no circumstances should you discontinue taking any medication, including Zyprexa, without first consulting with your doctor. For Zyprexa legal information contact the Zyprexa Attorneys of Ennis & Ennis, P.A. by filling out our free Zyrpexa case evaluation form or by calling the toll-free number listed below.
