Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), also known as erythema multiforme, is a serious skin disorder that results from an allergic reaction or infection. The skin cells die and ultimately cause the epidermis – or the outermost layer of the skin – to separate from the dermis (the layer of the skin underneath the epidermis).

But SJS causes more than just physical pain – it causes emotional pain. Because SJS is a skin disorder, what you’re going through is visible to others. Not only may people begin to see you differently, but you may view yourself differently as well. SJS can cause permanent damage and scarring, so even when you recover, you’re constantly reminded of what you went through every day.

Worst of all, your SJS may have been caused by a drug you thought would help you, not leave you with this horrible condition. Plus, you’re already dealing with piles of medical bills, time out of work, and confusing paperwork.

If you were diagnosed with SJS, contact the Pennsylvania law firm of Edgar Snyder & Associates right away for a free legal evaluation. You may have a dangerous drug case.

We understand you’re frustrated and feel helpless. We can’t erase what happened to you, but we can fight to get you the money you deserve for your medical bills and pain and suffering.

What Causes Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?

A leading cause of SJS is the use of antibiotics and other prescription medications, like Dilantin.

Some medications known to cause SJS include:

Allopurinol – Zyloprim, Allohexal, Allosig, Milurit, Zyloric
Diclofenac – Voltaren, Cataflam, Arthrotec, Cambia, Deflamat, Votrex, Zolterol
Sitagliptin – Januvia
Oseltamivir – Tamiflu
Penicillins
Barbiturates
Sulfonamides (Sulfa Drugs) – Sumatriptan(Imitrex), Celecoxib, Mafenide
Phenytoin – Dilantin, Phenytek, Eptoin
Azithromycin – Zithromax
Modafinil – Provigil, Alertec, Modavigil, Carim, Vigia
Lamotrigine – Lamictal
Nevirapine – Viramune
Ibuprofen – Advil, Nurofen, Nuprin
Ethosuximide – Emeside, Zarontin
Carbamazepine – Biston, Carbatrol, Epitol, Tegretol
Ciprofloxacin/Levofloxacin/Gemifloxacin – Ciloxan, Ciflox, Ciproxin, Proquin, Levaquin, Tavanic, Factive
Tetracycline – Sumycin, Terramycin, Panmycin
Amoxicillin/Ampicillin
Isotretinoin – Accutane
Vancomycin – Vancocin

While anyone can be diagnosed with SJS, it is more common in children and people of Asian or African-American descent. Some forms of the condition are more severe than others. Unfortunately, the severe cases tend to be caused by medications, like the ones listed above.

Signs and Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Symptoms of SJS include:

Fever
Sore throat
Fatigue
Ulcers and other lesions
Conjunctivitis of the eyes
Rash
Itching
Joint aches
Dry, itchy, or burning eyes

Some serious complications include loss of body fluids; shock; inflammation of the lungs, kidneys, liver, and heart; permanent skin damage and scarring; and death. Recovery can take weeks to months, depending on how severe your condition is.

What to do if Taking a Prescription Medication Caused Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

If you are experiencing symptoms of SJS, call a doctor or go to the emergency room right away – especially if the rash or lesions cover a large area on your body. Then, contact Edgar Snyder & Associates to find out if you have a case.

Since 1982, our highly rated law firm has helped hundreds of people who have suffered serious side effects from a medication that was supposed to help them – but instead it harmed them.

Our experienced attorneys have the ability to go up against the big pharmaceutical companies that make, sell, and distribute dangerous drugs.

From the moment you hire us, we go to work for you. Our goal is to give you peace of mind, so you can focus on more important things – like your health. We fight to get you the money you need to pay your medical bills and make up for any time you miss at work.

And remember, there’s never a fee. We guarantee it.

Find out if You Have a Dangerous Drug Case Now

If you or someone you know suffers from Stevens-Johnson syndrome, contact us right away.

You may have a case, but you need to act now. There are time limits to file a claim.

Call us at 1-866-9-4EDGAR (1-866-943-3427), or submit your information online with the form at the top right of this webpage for a free, no obligation legal evaluation. We’re here 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Get started now so we can help you.