DeLauro Urges FDA to Investigate Eli Lilly's Actions Involving Zyprexa

DeLauro Urges FDA to Investigate Eli Lilly's Actions Involving Zyprexa

In response to media reports of the off-labeling marketing of schizophrenia drug Zyprexa despite concerns over health risks of the drug, Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn.-3) today urged the FDA to investigate. DeLauro is the ranking member of the House Appropriations Agriculture Subcommittee - a subcommittee she is likely to chair in the 110th Congress - with jurisdiction and oversight responsibilities of the FDA and its budget.

"Based on the documents provided to The New York Times, Eli Lilly's actions involving Zyprexa are very worrisome. In addition to illegally promoting the off-label use of the drug, Eli Lilly's internal documents show that the company also deliberately withheld important safety information about Zyprexa, which has been linked to diabetes, from doctors. Eli Lilly also encouraged primary care physicians to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder even if the doctors did not consider themselves qualified to do so. This appears to be another clear example of how drug companies are putting profits before drug safety.

"As the agency in charge of preventing the marketing of off-label uses of prescription drugs and ensuring drug safety, I strongly urge the FDA to investigate this marketing campaign that is putting patients at risk."

http://www.house.gov/delauro/press/2006/December/Zyprexa_FDA_12_18_06.html