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Zyprexa

Zyprexa, also known as olanzapine, is an atypical antipsychotic. While approved by the Food and Drug Administration for schizophrenia in 1996 and bipolar disorder in 2000, it is used off-label to treat psychosis, dementia, anxiety, anorexia and severe agitation. This type of antipsychotic drug blocks particular dopamine and serotonin receptors that are linked to these disorders.

Potential Dangers

In July 2002, a Duke University study found that as a result of taking Zyprexa, at least 289 patients had developed diabetes; of those, 23 died. These findings initiated more studies, which prompted the drug's manufacturer to include warnings of the potential for developing diabetes and hypoglycemia. In April 2005, the FDA issued a warning stating that older people who are prescribed Zyprexa for dementia have a higher risk of death than those who are not. Drugs such as Zyprexa have also been known to cause Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome, a potentially fatal nervous system disorder.

To learn more about legal claims related to Zyprexa, consult an attorney who practices in the area of drugs and medical devices.