Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a very serious, sometimes life-threatening skin disease that many people have never heard of.  SJS is most often triggered by specific medications, which is yet another reason why it is so dangerous and devastating for those afflicted and their loved ones. There are hundreds – if not more – over-the-counter and prescription drugs that can lead to SJS, including Advil and other common medications. In the event it is left untreated, SJS could lead to toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and even death. For this reason, it is of the utmost importance that you understand the various signs and symptoms of SJS and seek medical attention immediately if you fear you have this condition. There is a far better chance of recovery if caught and treated early on.

About NSAIDs and SJS

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are some of the most widely used over-the-counter medications on the market, as they are pain-relief drugs that are prescribed for a wide range of ailments. Some common NSAIDs include ibuprofen (such as Advil and Motrin), aspirin, indomethacin, ketoprofen, oxaprozin, and sulindac. NSAIDs are used to treat everything from headaches to joint pain, menstrual cramps, fevers, and other types of pain. However, NSAIDs are known to cause stomach problems because they inhibit specific enzymes in the system that protect the stomach lining. In the event these enzymes are compromised by the NSAIDs, the stomach becomes vulnerable and susceptible to health problems.

There are also a handful of NSAIDs’ on the market today that do not compromise the stomach lining, providing individuals with the pain relief they are looking for in a seemingly safe and comfortable manner. However, these NSAIDs have been linked to other serious problems, such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Some of the most common NSAIDs that have been linked to SJS include:

• Daypro
• Feldene
• Bextra

The manufacturers of these drugs have been faced with numerous lawsuits because it has been shown that they failed to include adequate warning about the potential side effects. Due to the heightened number of cases linking NSAIDs and SJS, the FDA and drug manufacturers have begun reviewing many drugs available to the public today, making provisions and recommendations aimed to protect the consumer. The FDA has even required many of these pharmaceutical giants to include a black box warning (the strongest label possible) on the packaging in order to warn consumers of the potential dangers, such as SJS. Furthermore, recent lawsuits and studies have highlighted the now-known link between NSAIDs and SJS, forcing drug companies to review the labelling and pull the drugs off the shelves.

SJS is a very serious skin condition that carries a wide range of symptoms and side effects. Some of the most common side effects of SJS include:

• Skin pain
• Red or purple skin rash that spreads within a few hours or days
• Blisters on the skin
• Shedding of the skin
• Facial swelling
• Tongue swelling

To learn more about the connection between SJS and NSAIDs, please contact a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome attorney today.