A very popular prescription drug is under fire and you need to know about it.
Zyprexa, manufactured by Eli Lilly, is being accused of causing everything from diabetes to panchreatis, even death.
WVLT TV’s Jane Nowiski tells us more about the drug and what you can do if you’re taking it.
“Studies also link Zyprexa to hyperglycemia, pancreatic, and other severe complications,” a commercial for the law firm of Hughes and Coleman claims.
Zyprexa is a worldwide popular drug approved by the FDA for psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorders.
Although proven effective, some people have reported problems.
“May make users ten times more likely to develop diabetes,” the commerical adds.
“It does cause weight gain in a lot of people and weight gain is, of course, associated with diabetes and diabetes is associated with heart disease and other complications, retinopathy, neoperthy,” says Glen Farr, U.T. Professor of Pharmacy.
In March of 2004, the FDA required all the atypical anti-psychotics, not just Zyprexa, to include a warning label of these complications. However, Zyprexa is not only under fire for complications when used for intended use, but also when used “off label.”
“That doesn’t mean it can’t be used for other things and it often is. Like dementia in elderly patients or controlling aggressive behavior,” says Prof. Farr.
Still, there are several law firms who would like to talk to patients who are taking Zyprexa, or have taken the drug and are having complications. You may be eligible for legal representation.
