Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a painful, disabling, and potentially deadly skin disease that is usually caused by a reaction to certain drugs. Another form of the disease is called Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), also often caused by a drug reaction.
In the United States, adverse drug reactions are the fourth leading cause of death, accounting for approximately 150,000 deaths per year. SJS is one of the most dangerous and disabling adverse drug reactions.
What are SJS symptoms?
Victims of SJS suffer a severe allergic reaction that includes a painful and unsightly skin rash involving the entire body, including the mucous membranes (such as the inside of the mouth). More specifically, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome sufferers experience:
- Rash, blisters, or red splotches on skin
- Conjunctivitis (eye infection)
- Blisters in mouth, eyes, ears, nose, genital area
- Flu-like symptoms
- Persistent fever
- Swelling of eyelids, red eyes
What Drugs Cause SJS?
Allergic reaction to medication is the leading cause of SJS. Some of the medications that have been known to lead to Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, include:
Sulfa Drugs and Antibiotics
These drugs are used for the treatment of infection.
- Bactrim, Septra
- Sulfacoxine
- Sulfadoxine
- Sulfasalazine
- Vancomycin
- Zithromax
- Amoxicillin
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
These drugs are used for the treatment of muscle and joint pain.
Anti-Seizure Medications
Contact Kershaw, Cutter & Ratinoff
KCR personal injury attorneys have handled thousands of cases involving dangerous drugs and defective products. We have the specific knowledge and expertise to help our injured clients obtain fair compensation in these complex cases. In recent years, KCR has litigated and settled numerous nationwide cases involving products such as:
If you or someone you know has taken any of the drugs listed above and suffered a serious skin reaction, please fill out and submit the contact form on this page for a free case evaluation or call us toll-free at (888) 285-3333.