The FDA approved Eli Lilly’s long-acting injection, Zyprexa Relprevv (olanzapine), as a treatment for schizophrenia in adults.

The company said the approval was based on clinical trials conducted in over 2000 patients that showed that Zyprexa Relprevv, which is effective for up to four weeks, was able to effectively control the symptoms of schizophrenia without the need for oral therapy.

As part of the approval, the drugmaker has implemented a risk evaluation strategy, which was requested by the FDA in a complete response letter issued in January.

In December 2008, the new version of the treatment received approval in Europe, where it is marketed as Zypadhera.

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Reference Articles

FDA approves Lilly's Zyprexa Relprevv for treatment of schizophrenia in adults - (Eli Lilly)

Lilly wins approval for long-acting Zyprexa - (Indianapolis Business Journal)

FDA approves long-acting Zyprexa - (MarketWatch)

FDA OKs longer-lasting version of Lilly's Zyprexa - (The Washington Post)