Home > Blog > Two Die After Zyprexa Injections

Zyprexa Relprevv, the long-lasting injectable form of the atypical antipsychotic Zyprexa, resulted in the deaths of two people.  The drug, whose active ingredient is olanzapine, treats schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

This form of Zyprexa is the follow-up to Eli Lilly’s original blockbuster drug Zyprexa.  However, it is strictly monitored by the FDA, and can only be administered by a doctor with a three-hour observation period following each injection.  This is because there is a high risk for post-injection delirium sedation syndrome or PDSS.  Symptoms of PDSS include:

  • dizziness, sleepiness, grouchiness
  • weakness
  • stiffness or shaking muscles
  • high blood pressure
  • seizures
  • respiratory arrest
  • cardiac arrythmia

In this case, it is not known whether PDSS was responsible for the deaths of the two individuals.  They were monitored as required during the three-hour follow-up period, and there were no signs of PDSS at that time.  The two individuals did however have extremely high levels of the drug in their bloodstreams at the time of death.

The FDA is investigating the deaths.

The original Zyprexa was a blockbuster drug, but it came with its share of serious problems for Eli Lilly.  Eli Lilly faced thousands of lawsuits alleging that the drug caused diabetes, and it also had to settle allegations from the Justice Department that it illegally marketed Zyprexa.

Have you or a loved one been injured by a prescription drug?  If so, you are not alone.  Thousands of people suffer unexpected and serious side effects of the drugs they are taking.  The attorneys at Kirkendall Dwyer LLP are experienced and compassionate and are here to help.