Zyprexa and Symbyax Labels Updated

The labels of Zyprexa (olanzapine), used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and Symbyax (olanzapine and fluoxetine), indicated for bipolar depression, have been updated with stronger warnings for hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and weight gain.

The maker, Eli Lilly, says olanzapine appears more likely than some other atypical antipsychotics to be associated with increased glucose levels. It says physicians should consider this risk when prescribing Zyprexa or Symbyax to diabetic patients, and patients should be monitored regularly for worsening glucose control.

The manufacturer also reports that "significant, and sometimes very high" triglyceride elevations have been seen with olanzapine use, and that weight gain may continue through 2 years of treatment.