What is Zyprexa (Olanzapine)? Lawyer and Attorney Information

What is Zyprexa (Olanzapine)?
Lawyer and Attorney Information

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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 it was the second atypical antipsychotic approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Atypical antipsychotics differ from earlier generation antipyschotics because they selectively block histamine, cholinergic muscarinic and alpha adrenergic receptors, which are responsible for various allergic and neurochemical reactions within the brain. Older antipsychotics did not selectively block these neuotransmitters, which resulted in several side effects, including loss of coordination, muscles spasms, and severe allergic reactions.

Atypical antipsychotics such as Zyprexa reduced the frequency of these chronic and incurable side effects, but caused other unexpected reactions. Zyprexa alters the metabolism of some patients, causing severe weight gain and negatively affecting their cardiovascular systems. In older patients suffering from senile dementia or Alzheimer's disease, these patients suffered from an increase in neurovascular events such as embolisms and strokes. Other patients developed serious diabetic conditions, due to the Zyprexa's tendency to reduce the body's sensitivity to insulin.

Zyprexa has become one of the most prescribed atypical antipsychotic drugs on the market, totaling 4.3 billion dollars annually in sales for Eli Lilly. Originally intended to only treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorders, Zyprexa is now prescribed to treat conditions as diverse as anorexia to multiple personality disorders. Eli Lilly does not sanction these prescriptions, as they are not what the drug is intended to treat, but are rather "off-label" prescriptions. Additionally, the FDA mandates that all atypical antipsychotic drugs carry warnings advising patients of the elevated risks of diabetic consequences. In recent years, concern over these side effects has prompted increasing amounts of legal action, and sales of Zyprexa have suffered accordingly.

Companies have the responsibility to warn potential consumers of the dangers of their products. Without proper testing, these drugs can cause more harm than good. If you or your loved ones have needlessly suffered because of a drug's dangerous side effects, then you have a right to recover damages for your suffering. Contact our lawyers today for a free case review, for the law limits the amount of time you can collect compensation. Don't hesitate another minute.