Zyprexa Questions & Answers

What is Zyprexa?
Zyprexa is the brand name for an anti-psychotic drug approved for the treatment of Schizophrenia, Bi-polar disorder, and other psychotic mental disorders. Zyprexa may be linked to diabetes, hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar levels), and diabetic ketoacidosis (a potentially fatal complication of diabetes).

In February of 2004, Zyprexa drug maker, Eli Lilly and Company, notified doctors and psychiatrists that elderly patients with dementia face an increased risk of stroke with Zyprexa treatment.

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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 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. Researchers identified 289 cases of diabetes in patients who had been given Zyprexa. Of these 289 cases:

• 225 were newly diagnosed diabetic patients
• 100 developed ketosis, a serious diabetes-related complication
• 22 developed pancreatitis, a life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas
• 23 died
• 71% occurred within six months of starting treatment with Zyprexa

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What are the symptoms of glucose abnormalities and diabetes?
The symptoms that are most commonly associated with glucose abnormalities and diabetes include fatigue, unexplained weight loss, frequent urination, unusual irritability, increased appetite, blurred vision and listlessness. Many of these symptoms are secondary to your body's inability to process glucose adequately. Diabetes can also compromise the body's ability to resist infection giving rise to urinary tract infections, bladder infections, and other disorders.

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What should I do if I have some of the symptoms associated with Zyprexa?
If you experience 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. If you have concerns about Zyprexa, speak with your doctor or medical professional today.

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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 medical negligence 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 medical lawsuit provides an effective vehicle to obtain compensatory and punitive damages. If you have experienced any of the adverse side effects associated with Zyprexa, contact an experienced lawyer today.

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About Brown & Crouppen: Zyprexa Lawyers

Brown & Crouppen has been building a reputation for success with personal injury clients for over 25 years. Today, we are one of mid-America’s largest personal injury law firms with over 70 legal professionals and five offices throughout Missouri and Illinois. A large area of our concentration is dangerous drug litigation involving manufacturers and suppliers of unsafe drugs and products.  If you have been injured by a dangerous drug, the manufacturer may have failed in its duty to design, make, inspect and label the product appropriately.

You can count on the lawyers of Brown & Crouppen for top-notch legal skills and our commitment to making the justice system work for our clients. If you have legal concerns and would like to benefit from the support of a strong team of legal professionals, please contact us online or call our office today at Toll-Free: 866-991-4700.