Eli Lilly and Co. created the atypical antipsychotic Zyprexa to help people who suffer from schizophrenia, a debilitating and distressing mental condition that causes victims to perceive reality differently than other people.  By 2005, Zyprexa became associated with a number of dangerous and potentially lethal side effects including diabetes, pancreatitis, and hyperglycemia.  Furthermore, Zyprexa use may have caused the deaths of a number of elderly patients being treated for senile dementia. 

The Food and Drug Administration requested Eli Lilly alter the packaging of Zyprexa to warn people of the potential dangerous aspect of the drug.  Unfortunately, the FDA warning was too late for the 23 people who died by 2002 because of the drug.  Zyprexa can cause the body to suffer an imbalance of blood sugar, which if left unchecked can result in diabetes or ketoacidosis.

Due to mountains of pressure from lawyers and the government, Eli Lilly decided on June 9, 2005 to settle about 75%, or 8,000 cases regarding injuries caused by Zyprexa.  Even though Zyprexa can cause other serious side effects, a great deal of these cases involved diabetes or other blood sugar-related illnesses.  Some of the more common side effects of Zyprexa include weight gain, hyperglycemia, and fatigue.  The side effects of Zyprexa often come on suddenly after a period of slow buildup, so people who take this drug need to be aware of the early indications of diabetes, because early detection can prevent the likelihood of potentially serious complications.

It is important to take quick action if you or someone you love was the victim any of the side effects of Zyprexa that you speak to an attorney as soon as possible.  You may be able to pursue a lawsuit against those who are responsible for your condition, but if hesitate the statute of limitations in your state could expire, preventing you from getting the compensation you deserve.  Contact an attorney today.