Zyprexa linked to Diabetes, Hyperglycemia

Zyprexa (Olanzapine), which is prescribed for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar mania, has been linked to diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia, pancreatitis and blood sugar disorders. There have been 288 reported diabetes cases in Zyprexa patients, with 23 of them being fatal.

Eli Lilly & Co. is accused of heavily promoting Zyprexa as a safe and effective drug for psychotic disorders, while virtually concealing the risks of side effects from doctors and from the patients themselves. In a recent lawsuit, the courts agreed with consumers and found that prior to 2003, Eli Lilly did not properly disclose risks and known side effects of Zyprexa.

With worldwide distribution to thousands of consumers, Zyprexa's side effects were considered such a risk that in 2002, both the Japanese Health and Welfare Ministry and the Great Britain Medicines Control Agency issued emergency warnings concerning Zyprexa and diabetes-related complications.

The FDA issued a label warning in 2003 for all atypical anti-psychotic drugs to include the risk of hyperglycemia. Currently, Zyprexa is still approved as safe and effective and patients should realize that it could be dangerous to stop taking the medication, especially abruptly, and should talk with their physicians to decide whether the benefits and risks of taking Zyprexa.

Zyprexa In the News

Eli Lilly and Co. finalized settlement of $700 million in lawsuit charging the pharmaceutical giant of failing to disclose health risks in Zyprexa labeling. $690 million in settlement funds will be dispersed to the 8,000 plaintiffs (approx. 70% of all claimants). (Sep-21-05) [INDYSTAR/ BLOOMBERG NEWS]

Eli Lilly & Co. has agreed to pay out almost $700 million in a Zyprexa settlement. (June-10-05) [FOX NEWS]

Zyprexa FDA Alert

An FDA alert for Zyprexa with patient information of the risks and side effects of Zyprexa therapy. [FDA ALERT]

Study of Diabetes risk from Zyprexa

A British Medical Journal assessment of the increased risk of Zyprexa (olanzapine) causing diabetes in patients with schizophrenia. [BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL]

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