Zyprexa Breast Cancer Lawsuit

Harding Mazzotti is investigating cases of women and men diagnosed with breast cancer after taking Zyprexa.

Lawsuits are being filed against drugmaker Eli Lilly, alleging the company knowingly concealed evidence that its antipsychotic drug Zyprexa is linked to breast cancer.

If you or someone you know was diagnosed with breast cancer after taking Zyprexa, contact the attorneys at Harding Mazzotti, LLP for a free case evaluation today.

 

What is Zyprexa (Olanzapine)? 

Zyprexa (chemical name: olanzapine) is a brand name of an atypical antipsychotic drug manufactured by Eli Lilly. The drug is prescribed for a variety of uses, including as a treatment for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and treatment-resistant depression when used in combination with Prozac (fluoxetine). The drug is administered in two ways: intramuscular (injections of short-acting and long-acting) and oral. Both the intramuscular form and the oral form of the drug are administered in different doses depending on the condition, need, and symptoms. 

What Are the Side Effects of Zyprexa?

While each person may have a different reaction to Zyprexa, Lilly lists a variety of side effects that are provided to both providers and patients. The most notable of these effects are changes in metabolism and weight gain, as well as constipation, dizziness, tremors, and fatigue. While these effects are disclosed to patients before administration, the risk of breast cancer. 

A study by Rahman et al. published in 2022 documents that women who take antipsychotics are generally more likely to develop breast cancer due to an increased presence of prolactin.  Prolactin is produced in most people normally; however, increased prolactin levels have been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. The aforementioned study found that using Zyprexa, which has a medium propensity to produce prolactin, leads to a 54% increased risk of breast cancer for women who take the drug or its generics. These findings are not novel. A previous study by Pottegard et al. conducted in 2018 found similar results, ultimately finding that second-generation antipsychotics like Zyprexa increase breast cancer risk in women who use such drugs long-term, which was defined as having more than 10,000 mg cumulative dose, with risk increasing for a cumulative dose of greater than 50,000 mg. Another 2018 study found similar data: those using prolactin-increasing antipsychotics like Zyprexa are 56% more likely to develop breast cancer after use for more than five years. 

How Does Zyprexa Increase Cancer Risk? 

Zyprexa Affects Hormones 

It is believed that Zyprexa functions by inhibiting dopamine, a neurotransmitter that, among other things, helps regulate mood. Dopamine also regulates a hormone called prolactin, so when Zyprexa reduces dopamine, prolactin levels increase. 

Elevated Prolactin Can Cause Harm 

Over time, persistently high prolactin levels can result in the following: 

• Breast tissue cells can multiply faster and more uncontrolled than is typical. 

• Cells that are old, damaged, or abnormal do not die off. 

• This fosters the growth of lumps or tumors that have the potential to develop into cancer. 

Long-Term Use Increases Risk 

Research indicates that long-term use of Zyprexa gives prolactin more time to cause damage to breast tissue. Risk increases the longer someone uses the drug. 

Zyprexa Breast Cancer Lawsuit 

Lawsuits also allege that the drugmakers were aware of breast cancer risks associated with increased prolactin levels, yet they: 

• Failed to include warnings about breast cancer on labels 

• Downplayed the drug’s prolactin-elevating effects and related cancer risk 

• Continued marketing the drugs despite known risks 

• Put profits ahead of patient safety 

Harding Mazzotti fights to hold these companies accountable. When legal actions are commenced against drug companies, the rights and safety of patients are protected, and the pharmaceutical industry becomes more accountable. In your case, you can pursue compensation for your loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, lost wages, and more. 

The Zyprexa attorneys at Harding Mazzotti handle your case on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win, and case evaluations are always free. 

Do I Qualify? 

If you developed breast cancer after taking Zyprexa (or olanzapine), you may qualify for this lawsuit. 

The best way to find out if you qualify to join the Zyprexa breast cancer lawsuit is to contact Harding Mazzotti for a free case evaluation. We are available 24/7 at 1-800-529-1010, or contact us on our website.

What is the Potential Compensation?

Compensation for the Zyprexa lawsuit depends on several factors, including your specific damage claims. These lawsuits may include economic damages, non-economic damages (pain and suffering), and punitive damages.  

Economic Damages 

Any monetary losses brought on by the alleged harm are covered by economic damages. These are costs (such as past and future medical bills or lost wages) that can be verified through receipts, pay stubs, or other documentation. 

Non-Economic Damages (Pain and Suffering) 

Intangible harms, such as pain and suffering, a decline in life quality, and more, are covered by non-economic damages. 

Punitive Damages 

In addition to the above-mentioned compensatory damages, the plaintiffs may also be entitled to receive punitive damages. These financial penalties are intended to: 

1. Punish the defendant or defendants who act with malicious, reckless disregard for safety.
2. Discourage similar detrimental behavior in the future.

Zyprexa Breast Cancer Lawsuit Deadline 

The deadline for filing a Zyprexa breast cancer claim varies based on a number of factors, including where you were prescribed the medication, where and when your injury developed, and the state in which you reside. If you or someone in your family may have a case, our attorneys advise consulting with Harding Mazzotti, LP as soon as possible to avoid being time-barred from filing a claim. 

Get Help from a Zyprexa Breast Cancer Lawyer 

If you or a loved one was diagnosed with breast cancer after using the antipsychotic medication Zyprexa, contact the defective drug injury lawyers at Harding Mazzotti, LLP today for a free case evaluation. Click, Chat, or call 1800LAW1010 24/7 for a free consultation.