Lilly investigated in US over the marketing of olanzapine

The multinational drug company Eli Lilly faces the threat of lawsuits from US state governments over alleged illegal practices in the marketing of its drug olanzapine (Zyprexa), which is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

The company has already agreed to settle more than 18 000 outstanding product liability claims that relate to the drug in the United States for an undisclosed sum.

Last week, the attorney generals of Vermont and Illinois issued civil investigative demands, equivalent to subpoenas, ordering the company to hand over internal documents relating to the marketing of olanzapine. The states are investigating claims that the company concealed data that show serious risk of side effects including weight gain, hyperglycaemia, and diabetes

Investigators are also looking at whether Eli Lilly illegally promoted the off-label use of the drug …