Zithromax Linked to Severe Skin Reactions SJS & TEN

Some patients who have used the antibiotic Zithromax (also known generically as azithromycin or popularly as the Z-Pak), have gone on to develop Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or its more severe form, Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN).

These diseases are a severe autoimmune reaction. Several things can trigger them, including infections and rarely cancers. However the most common causes of SJS and TEN, by a wide margin, is a reaction to medication. These may include prescription drugs like Zithromax and Z-Pak or even over-the-counter drugs like Tylenol and Motrin.

What is Zithromax?

Zithromax is a very commonly prescribed antibiotic of the macrolide class. It is among the world’s best-selling antibiotics. It is a synthetic antibiotic derived from erythromycin, with its lactone ring modified. It is highly effective against a broad spectrum of gram-negative bacteria, making it ideal for treating a wide variety of bacterial infections, including everything from strep throat to Chlamydia.

Zithromax works by attacking the ribosomal subunit of bacteria, which are different than those of mammals, allowing for selectivity. This prevents bacteria from making proteins, one of the most basic functions of living cells. The modifications from erythromycin have made Zithromax better suited to functioning in the human body. The modifications allow it to function even after being exposed to stomach acid, which simplifies manufacturing since it does not require protection from gastric acids.

Zithromax & Severe Skin Reactions

Despite its efficiency at treating a wide array of illnesses, some patients suffer dangerous reactions to this medicine. This includes patients who develop powerful autoimmune reactions to Zithromax. In these patients, the drug may kick off a reaction that culminates in the body attacking its own skin, as though the body’s largest organ was a foreign invader. This process is devastating to the patient.

In Stevens Johnson Syndrome, the milder form of this reaction, the patient first feels vague, flu-like symptoms. However, these symptoms escalate to a skin rash and ulceration of the skin, mucous membranes, and even eyes. This condition is painful and debilitating to the patient.

Additionally, this damage can cause further compilations. In some patients, the damage caused by Zithromax Stevens Johnson Syndrome can spread to their internal organs. In others, the ulceration leads to disfiguring scarring, and even blindness when the damage occurs on the eyes. These sores also leave the patient vulnerable to secondary infections. The pain makes it hard for patients to move and even eat.

In the most serious of patients, this condition escalates further to Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis. In TEN, the same reaction is stepped up, and causes massive portions of the skin to slough off. This damage resembles physical burns, and patients often find themselves in the burn ward of the nearest intensive care unit. This form of the reaction can kill 40% of patients.

If you or someone you know suffered from SJS or TEN after taking Zithromax or any other drug, you have rights. You have steps you can take to regain control of your life. You can start by visiting the Zithromax, Z-Pak, Azithromycin, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome & Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Class Action Lawsuit Settlement & Investigation Lawsuit Investigation. Here, you can submit your information for a free review by a SJS lawyer that specializes in this type of lawsuit. From here, you may receive guidance on the next steps to take in your specific situation.