Bextra® Stevens-Johnson syndrome
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Allergic reactions to drugs can manifest in many different ways. One in particular is Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a potentially deadly skin disease resulting from a drug-induced allergic reaction. Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis are two forms of the same skin disease, and usually result from a drug-related reaction. The two forms of this skin disease can be extremely painful as well as deadly. The FDA recalled the COX-2 inhibitor Bextra®, which is already linked to these disorders, on April 7, 2005.
In addition to Bextra®, additional drugs have been linked to Stevens-Johnson syndrome. These drugs include some other non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), Allopurinol, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, barbiturates, anticonvulsants, and sulfa antibiotics. While the condition can sometimes, but not often, be attributed to a bacterial infection, additional cases have no known cause for the onset of Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. Experts still say that the most common cause is through drug-related allergic reaction.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome occurs most commonly in older people, primarily because the drugs associated with the disease tend to be used in older people. Contracting Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis is also a risk in people that have AIDS. Potentially higher risk groups are urged to remain observant for any signs of these skin diseases and become knowledgeable of the symptoms that could indicate the presence or onset of Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis may not be easy to detect at first because they can start with non-specific symptoms such as coughing, aching, headaches, and feverishness. If a red rash follows these symptoms on the face and the trunk of the body, check with a doctor immediately. The rash can also continue to spread to other parts of the body and form into blisters in the eye, mouth, and vaginal area. Inflammation of the mucous membranes and layers of the skin can also peel away from toxic epidermal necrolysis. With toxic epidermal necrolysis, the most common cause of death is infection of the exposed areas of skin.
If you or a loved one has contracted Stevens-Johnson syndrome form a prescription drug, contact an attorney today. You can be eligible for compensation due to medical negligence. An experienced attorney can help you organize your claim and help you get compensation for your suffering. Contact them today!
