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Manufactured by pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly, Zyprexa, also known as olanzapine, is a medication that is used in the treatment of various psychotic disorders such as bi-polar disorder and schizophrenia. This drug, approved by the Food and Drugs Administration in 1996, works in the same way as a number of similar medications – by blocking certain receptors on the nerves of the brain. This is a prescription only medication, which has been widely prescribed for nearly ten years. However, as with many other drugs, zyprexa has been linked to a wide range of side effects, some more serious than others.
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There are a number of side effects associated with zyprexa. This drug can cause a drop in blood pressure, known as orthostatic hypotension. Some drugs, when taken alongside zyprexa, can exacerbate this condition, so it is important to ensure that any other drugs that you are taking do not heighten the risk of side effects caused by zyprexa.
Akathisia is another common side effect of taking this drug, and this is where patients experience a sensation of restlessness, and an inability to sit still. Other common side effects associated with zyprexa include behavioural problems, dizzy spells, constipation, weight gain, and drowsiness. Some patients taking zyprexa also suffer from movement disorders, which can result in involuntary movements of various parts of the body, such as the head, neck, limbs and eyes.
Tardive dyskinesia can also affect some people that are taking this treatment. This is a condition where patients suffer involuntary movements of the mouth, tongue, and the eyelids. The risk of this condition can be heightened in those that have been taking zyprexa on a longer term basis, and in some cases the symptoms of this condition cannot be reversed even with discontinuation of the medication.
Another condition with which zyprexa has been linked is diabetes, as well as other blood sugar disorders. In fact, recent tests have shown that this medication and other newer medications of the same type were fifty percent more likely to cause diabetes than older anti-psychotics. The FDA has now asked the manufacturer of zyprexa to add a warning onto the packaging with regards to the drug’s side effects. Those with a family history of diabetes would need to be tested prior to receiving this medication, and patients should also remain vigilant when on this medication for any signs of diabetes or other health problems.
Eli Lilley has recently revealed that it will be looking to settle around seventy-five percent of compensation claims that have been filed against the company as a result of the side effects of zyprexa. Many people have filed claims after stating that the drug resulted in them contracting diabetes. Lawsuits have been filed by those having suffered other blood sugar disorders and various other side effects about which there was no warning on the medication – something the FDA plans to change with its instruction to Eli Lilly to place warnings on the packaging.
In addition to this, further concerns have been raised in connection with the use of zyprexa and similar anti-psychotics on older patients. Recent reports have stated that the use of such drugs on the elderly can reduce lifespan, and this has added to the worry about zyprexa and similar medications.
Experts have advised that anyone taking this drug should be monitored carefully for blood sugar changes, and should also remain vigilant for other symptoms such as involuntary movements of the face, head, or body. Any onset of symptoms should be reported by the patient to their healthcare provider. Those affected by zyprexa are also advised to seek legal assistance, as there may be grounds to claim compensation for damage or illness caused by this drug.