Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) believes it is inaccurate to imply that any single factor — including medication — was the cause of the unfortunate death of the patient profiled in New York Times – Jan_4.
Millions of patients around the world have benefited from Zyprexa and Lilly is concerned that this tragic story about a single patient could unnecessarily frighten people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and cause them to discontinue their medication without first consulting a physician. Furthermore, we are disappointed that the Times chose to focus its entire article on only one patient rather than speaking with additional patients and/or family members who have different views and experiences with Zyprexa. We encourage patients or caregivers with questions to consult their treating physicians or to call Lilly at 1-800-LILLY-RX.
Lilly released the following statement to the Times to ensure patients who take this medication have the information and reassurance they need.
“Zyprexa was approved by the FDA in 1996 and remains on the market today. It has been the subject of nearly 100 studies over the past 23 years and has been used by more than 20 million people worldwide. Doctors continue to prescribe it to deal with some of the most terrible mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The FDA has looked at the entire body of evidence that Lilly has continued to provide over the years, and has affirmed the benefit that this medicine can give to patients when accompanied by appropriate labeling regarding benefits and risks.
Zyprexa is indicated in the United States for the short- and long-term treatment of schizophrenia, acute mixed and manic episodes of bipolar I disorder, and maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder. Since Zyprexa was introduced in 1996, it has been prescribed to approximately 20 million people worldwide.