Many people do not know this, but adverse reactions to drugs are the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States. Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a life-threatening skin condition that is typically caused by an allergic reaction to any number of drugs, including ibuprofen. SJS affects the mucous membranes and skin, causing the epidermis to separate from the dermis because of cell death. In some more serious cases, SJS can lead to Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which is an acute, potentially-fatal skin reaction. Both SJS and TEN are now believed to be variants of the same condition, which is very important information that can save lives.

SJS and TEN are nearly always caused by medications, and the list of potentially harmful medications is long. In fact, there are more than 200 medications that have been reported in association with the rare skin conditions. Here are a few things to keep in mind in regards to what medications may trigger SJS over others:

• Drugs with long half-lives are more likely to cause SJS
• Medications that are taken systemically (by mouth or injection) are more likely to lead to SJS. However, there have been cases of TEN reported after topical use
• Only 20% of SJS/TEN cases occur as a result of no drug
• SJS/TEN are not usually associated with vaccination or infections
  • In most cases, infections are associated with mucosal involvement

Here is a brief look at some of the drugs most commonly associated with SJS/TEN:

• Anticonvulsants
• Acetaminophen
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Antifungals
• Lamotrigine
• Naproxen
• Paracetamol
• Penicillins
• Phenytoin

In 2005, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggested all companies that manufactured NSAIDs include a warning about the potential side effects, such as SJS/TEN. However, many companies ignored these warnings. SJS is a very serious, even catastrophic allergic reaction that causes the body to essentially burn from the inside out. In very severe cases, the skin will peel off in sheets from areas of the body. Individuals who have been diagnosed with SJS/TEN often seek treatment in burn units, as symptoms are very similar to that of burns.

We’ve discussed the triggers of SJS/TEN, but here is a look at some of the serious complications of the diseases:

• Arthritis
• Asthma
• Dry-eye syndrome
• Lung damage
• Blindness
• Loss of nail beds
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Photophobia

SJS is sometimes referred to as dermato stomatitis, Lyell’s Syndrome, and Febrile Mucocutaneous Syndrome. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with SJS, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger to learn about your rights. You may be able to file a lawsuit and sue for damages, depending on the circumstances surrounding your case.