FDA approves Zyprexa for additional uses

INDIANAPOLIS The Food and Drug Administration has approved two new uses for a drug made by Eli Lilly & Co., the drug maker announced.

The agency approved Zyprexa (olanzapine) tablets as a treatment for schizophrenia and manic or mixed bipolar episodes in adolescents ages 13 to 17 years.

“There has been a recognized need in the mental health community for additional guidance on treating teens diagnosed with these serious mental illnesses,” Lilly USA Neuroscience senior medical director Cherri Miner said in a statement. “Customers have been asking for data from controlled studies in these populations, and now with this information added to our label, we can help physicians make informed treatment decisions.”