Zyprexa
Zyprexa (olanzapine) is an antipsychotic prescription drug developed and marketed by Eli Lilly and Company for the treatment of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. It was approved for use by the FDA in 1996 and has become a best-selling drug for Eli Lilly. In 2007, Zyprexa accounted for a whopping $4.8 billion in revenues, or approximately 25 percent of the company’s total sales.
Zyprexa has also gained popularity due to a number of its “off-label” uses (uses not approved by the FDA). Off-label use of drugs is relatively common, though drug companies are prohibited from marketing their products for any purpose not explicitly approved by the FDA. Off-label uses for which Zyprexa is often prescribed include the treatment of anxiety disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, Tourette’s syndrome and certain eating disorders.
Zyprexa and Diabetes
More than 30,000 claims have been filed against Eli Lilly due to a link between Zyprexa use and the potential development of diabetes and conditions associated with it, such as high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Although Eli Lilly has downplayed the potential for such conditions to develop, more than 2,000 claims have been filed against the drug maker in 2008 alone, approximately 950 of which were settled in January 2008.
While Eli Lilly remains embroiled in litigation related to adverse Zyprexa reactions, the Indiana-based company scored an apparent victory in February 2008 when the FDA approved a longer-lasting version of Zyprexa. An FDA panel determined that the benefits of the injectable version of the antipsychotic outweigh its risks. This positive news comes at a critical juncture for Eli Lilly, which also faces confidential settlement discussions with lawmakers regarding Zyprexa marketing practices.
Zyprexa Marketing Controversy
Eli Lilly has been at the center of a great deal of controversy surrounding the methods it used to market Zyprexa. Specifically, the pharmaceutical giant has been accused of promoting Zyprexa for off-label uses. Although doctors often prescribe medications for off-label uses, drug companies are prohibited from marketing their products for such purposes.
Eli Lilly has also been accused of playing down the occurrence of certain side effects associated with Zyprexa, in addition to communicating with doctors directly and having suspect financial relations with consulting physicians and advisors. Eli Lilly representatives have been coordinating with federal prosecutors in the hope that an agreement can be reached to avoid the issuing of indictments for improper marketing practices. The federal investigation has spanned more than four years and could end up costing Eli Lilly billions in fines and settlements.
Zyprexa Lawsuits
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of using Zyprexa, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your pain and suffering. Eli Lilly has been accused of misleading consumers as to the serious side effects associated with Zyprexa use. Drug manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety and efficacy of their products before marketing them. Failure to do so is viewed as negligent and grounds for legal recourse.
The lawyers of Levin, Simes, Kaiser & Gornick are experienced personal injury lawyers who are adept at protecting the rights of consumers. To learn more about your rights as a Zyprexa victim and determine your eligibility for personal injury compensation, contact Levin, Simes, Kaiser & Gornick today at (800) 901-4001.
Levin Simes Kaiser & Gornick, LLP
44 Montgomery Street, 36th floor
San Francisco, CA 94104
Ph: 1.800.901.4001
Fax: 415.981.1270
