Ibuprofen, sometimes sold under the brand name Advil, belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs. NSAIDs are designed to relieve pain and swelling without the dangerous side effects of drugs like steroids or narcotics. However, these drugs have allegedly been linked to serious complications of their own, including Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN).

What are NSAIDs?

Advil/Ibuprofen is a type of NSAID, a very important class of drug. Other classes of anti-inflammatory, like steroids, tend to disrupt various processes in the body, since they mimic hormones. Steroids can also suppress the immune system, causing serious health risks. NSAIDs have no such risks. Additionally, since certain types of pain are linked to serious inflammation. NSAIDs can act as potent painkillers in this situation, without the risks of addiction associated with narcotics and other analgesics. There relative safety has made NSAIDs very common drugs, both by prescription and over the counter. Unfortunately, they may have a serious side effect for certain individuals.

SJS and TEN

An autoimmune reaction is a situation wherein the body attacks itself. In Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), the body attacks its own skin, causing a potentially-lethal reaction. The reaction starts with vague, flu-like symptoms that rapidly progresses to a painful rash. Blisters, sores, and ulcers develop on the skin and the mucus membranes. Some case spread to the eyes, and even internal organs. In the most serious cases, the disease can lead to Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) where large patches of skin die and slough off, leaving burn-like wounds. While SJS can be lethal, TEN kills almost half of the people who develop it.

Long-Term Consequences

Even survivors may face permanent medical consequences. Scarring from sores and ulcers can leave patients with disfiguring scars. These scars can even impair movement to a disabling degree if they happen on limbs or joints. And damage to the internal organs can leave patients with permanently impaired organ function. Similarly, damage to the eyes can result in permanent blindness. These problems can leave patients with reduced abilities for the rest of their lives.

Legal Action

Lawsuits have been filed by patients who developed SJS or TEN from Ibuprofen or Advil. These SJS lawsuits allege that drug manufacturers were aware of the risks associated with their drugs, and failed to adequately protect the public, leading to patients’ severe reaction. These lawsuits seek to recoup the cost of medical care, and compensation for lost wages and lost income potential due to permanent disabilities stemming from the reaction.