Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a fairly rare dermatological condition that is characterized by a widespread rash all over the body. In most cases, it is caused by an allergic reaction to a prescription or over-the-counter medication. However, it may also be linked to certain medical conditions or diseases.

Unfortunately, SJS is often misdiagnosed or missed altogether. This happens for numerous reasons, including the fact that it carries many of the same symptoms as other illnesses. If SJS is not caught early on, the results could be devastating. If you or a loved one was diagnosed with SJS, you may be able to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. Today we are going to go over some of the medications linked to the skin disease, as well as what you should know if you are considering filing a medical malpractice lawsuit.

The Risks of Effects of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome  

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) can be deadly if left untreated. It is often a reaction to certain medications, including:

• Advil
• Children’s Advilwo
• Children’s Tylenol 
• Bextra
• Cerebyx
• Feldene
• Motrin
• Toradol
• Nalfon
• Viaxx
• Allopurinol

Many of these drugs are anticonvulsants, pain relievers, medications that fight infection, anti-gout medications, and antipsychotics.

In addition to the above medications, SJS may also be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, or certain conditions such as HIV and systemic lupus.

Should I File a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit? 

If you have experienced any of the following symptoms, seek medical treatment right away:

• Flu-like symptoms such as a sore throat, cough, fever, and burning eyes
• Blisters
• Widespread rash that is purple or red
• Skin pain
• Shedding of skin
• Swelling of the tongue
• Swelling of the face
• Hives or lesions on the genitals, mouth, or elsewhere on the body

In many cases, manufacturers do not properly warn doctors or the general public about the potential side effects. This means that patients are often at risk of developing SJS without their knowledge. Doctors may continue to prescribe these drugs, even though they can knowingly cause serious harm and death.

Because SJS symptoms are often overlooked, it is important you talk to a lawyer about your case. Medical malpractice is still a major problem in the United States, claiming nearly as many lives as cancer and heart disease every single year. At Wormington & Bollinger, we understand what you are going through and are here to ensure justice is served. If SJS progresses, it could turn into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), an even more serious version of the disease.

Filing a medical malpractice lawsuit does not come without its challenges. Taking on big pharmaceutical companies like Johnson & Johnson can be challenging, but our Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers are ready to fight for you. To learn more, please give Wormington & Bollinger a call and schedule your free consultation.