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- Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) -
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is an auto-immune, exfoliative disorder of the skin and the mucous membranes possibly caused by an adverse drug reaction. The skin disorder SJS can also be called Erythema Multiforme Minor, EM-Minor, EM, Erythema Multiforme Major, EM Major, SJS, , SJS/TEN and other names.
Have you taken Sulindac, Clinoril or another NSAID and developed Stevens-Johnson Syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis ("SJS/TEN")? If so, you may have a products liability case arising from the use of sulindac, a generic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ("NSAID") manufactured by (among others) defendant Mutual Pharmaceutical Company ("Mutual").
Sulindac is used to relieve pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by a breakdown of the lining of the joints), rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints), and ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis that mainly affects the spine). Sulindac also is used to treat pain in the shoulder caused by bursitis (inflammation of a fluid-filled sac in the shoulder joint) and tendinitis (inflammation of the tissue that connects muscle to bone). It is also used to relieve gouty arthritis (attacks of severe joint pain and swelling caused by a build-up of certain substances in the joints). Sulindac is in a class of medications called NSAIDs. It works by stopping the body's production of a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation.
Sulindac is known to cause, in rare instances, a hypersensitivity reaction called Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and its more generous cousin toxic epidermal necrolysis ("SJS/TEN"). It may be prescribed by your doctor for shoulder pain. Sulindac may also be known under the brand name Clinoril made by the original provider, or a pharmacist may dispense it as the generic sulindac.
TEN is diagnosed when 30 percent or more of the outer skin layer on a patient's total body surface area has deteriorated, been burned off or turned into an open wound.
Recently, a district court ruled that sulindac was in a "defective condition" by showing that it was "unreasonably dangerous" due to its propensity to cause SJS/TEN--a harrowing hypersensitivity reaction characterized by necrosis of the skin and mucous membranes, and often causing blindness or death.
How Can We Help You
If you or a loved one has developed Stevens-Johnson Syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis ("SJS/TEN"), and you need legal help, please call us at 1. 800.672.4916 or submit your information by clicking this link and filling out a case evaluation form. We are here to help you protect your legal rights.
It is critical that prompt medical attention is received if you have any symptoms of SJS. Some of the symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome include:
• Rash, blisters, or red splotches on skin • Persistent fever • Blisters in mouth, eyes, ears, nose, genital area • Swelling of eyelids, red eyes • Conjunctivitis • Flu-like symptoms • Recent history of having taken a prescription or over-the-counter medication
If you notice any of the above symptoms, contact a health care professional immediately.
POSSIBLE CAUSES OF STEVENS-JOHNSON SYNDROME
It is thought that the main reason is an allergic reaction to a drug or over the counter medication. Bextra, the popular anti-inflammatory arthritis medication, as well as Daypro, Feldene and Tarceva may have an association with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome as may have many other anti-inflammatory drugs like Sulindac and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Motrin.
As reported by the FDA on May 8, 2009, Tarceva has been associated with Gastrointestinal perforation (including fatalities), bullous, blistering and exfoliative skin conditions including cases suggestive of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis, in some cases fatal, and ocular disorders, including corneal perforation or ulceration during use of Tarceva.
FDA: Tarceva video
Sulfa-based antibiotics, some seizure medications and many other drugs have also been associated with SJS.
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a very serious condition and should be treated as an emergency situation at first onset. The disease can have life altering consequences for those who survive it, and many do not survive.
Please navigate to the links below to find more information on personal injury and what individuals suffering from a personal injury can do to protect their legal rights or contact us.
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