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New Epilepsy Drugs Could Reduce Stevens Johnson Syndrome Risk
By John Curran
Decision Resources says that by 2016, the epilepsy drug market will increase by more than 25 percent, but the uptick is based on the usage of newer, so-called third-generation drugs. While ones like Vimpat are still linked to Stevens Johnson Syndrome, the risk may not be so high for epilepsy treatment. Also, even if the autoimmune disease occurs with Dilantin or Lamictal, a new treatment would allow patients to continue limiting their risk of seizures via medication with less potential for relapse.
Unfortunately, nearly all anti-epileptic drugs carry some risks for Stevens Johnson Syndrome, as do nearly all medications – including over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen. As noted in previous articles, one way to minimize this is by limiting the use of drugs except for truly necessary cases, such as waiting to see if a fever will pass. Even for those with epilepsy, there are other options for treatment that include drugs, including minor brain surgery to excise affected portions of the organ.
Still, many people will take drugs and not notice that drug safety packets include mentions of any potential rash. Some of these are caused by an allergy to the medication, which may or may not be dangerous. However, symptoms of potential Stevens Johnson Syndrome are not generally listed on most packets. They include a rash on the extremities and both fever and chills.
Rapid treatment is critical as the autoimmune condition can lead to inflamed or dead skin in the case of the more advanced form, toxic epidermal necrolysis. In addition, since it attacks mucus membranes, many victims of Stevens Johnson Syndrome go blind as a result.
If you believe that a medication caused toxic epidermal necrolysis or a similar condition, consider a free legal consultation to see whether or not to file a case against the drug maker. One is available by filling out the short form at the Stevens Johnson (SJS) & Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. These are painful conditions, but a legal remedy could defray the costs of treatment.
Updated March 6th, 2013
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