Seizure Drugs Linked to Stevens Johnson Syndrome

The federal Food and Drug Administration did not make the changes to the labeling of these drugs until years after they were introduced to market, even though studies had indicated the risks for these medications were significantly higher than other medications for years. However, for many doctors, the possibility of Stevens Johnson Syndrome side effects are so low that they often fail to warn patients of this risk.

Even in emergency rooms, the symptoms of Stevens Johnson Syndrome may point to other factors ranging from the flu to chicken pox or shingles. Prescribing doctors often remind patients that the first stage of Lamictal or Dilantin Stevens Johnson Syndrome side effects are rashes on the extremities and/or face as well as a fever and chills. It can be important for patients to warn hospital staff of this potential if the initial diagnosis does not account for the rash, which begins as stippling.

Epilepsy and bipolar disorder sufferers should heed the black box warnings from the FDA. It may be almost as rare as the other Lamictal side effects, but the damage to mucus membranes from this disorder can cause extensive damage. Many patients who deal with Stevens Johnson Syndrome because of epilepsy treatments are in hospital for weeks and some require chemical sedation. Some require speech therapy or skin grafts for toxic epidermal necrolysis.

Doctors look to the risk of Dilantin and Lamictal Stevens Johnson Syndrome side effects as low compared to other medications not just for minimizing seizures but also compared to medications that treat other illnesses. Patients should know that the black-box warnings are there and watch for the rash, fever and chills that could signal the onset of SJS side effects. It can progress quickly, often in less than a day or two.

People who were unaware of these risks may have legal recourse, however. Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawsuit attorneys are investigating claims of people who developed these disorders. Learn more and get a free consultation with one at the Stevens Johnson (SJS) & Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. You may be eligible to file a claim regarding SJS side effects and obtain a jury award or settlement to offset treatment costs and lost quality of life. Learn more and get in touch with one of our partner Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawsuit attorneys today.