The use of Onfi (clobazam), has been linked to risks of developing Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), a rare but serious skin reaction. Onfi is a popular anti-seizure medication often prescribed with a combination of medications in order to treat Lennox-Gaustaut Syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy.

Onfi is produced by Lundbeck, an international Danish pharmaceutical company that primarily focuses on the research, development and marketing of drugs to treat disorders of the central nervous system. Onfi became FDA approved in October 2011 and as of 2013 over 30,000 Americans have been prescribed the anti-seizure medication.

FDA Warns About Onfi SJS Risks

In December 2013, the FDA released a written warning notifying the medical community and the general public that Onfi side effects may include Stevens Johnson Syndrome in some users. The FDA now requires Onfi manufacturer Lundbeck to describe Onfi skin reactions in its Patient Medication Guide. The FDA also suggests patients taking Onfi seek immediate medical attention if they develop any of the known SJS symptoms. According to the FDA, patients should speak to their doctors before stopping Onfi to avoid any adverse reactions.

Medical researchers suggest that the risks of developing Stevens Johnson Syndrome are greater in younger children or within the first 8 weeks after beginning to use a new medication. Studies also suggest that persons of Chinese, Southeast Asian or Indian descent have a greater risk of developing the condition. Researchers believe this is due to a specific gene, HLA-B 1502, that these ethnicities are more likely to carry.

What Is Stevens Johnson Syndrome?

Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is often a result of a severe allergic reaction to medications. These medications range from over-the-counter common pain relievers to prescription medications like Onfi. The condition is generally associated with a fast-spreading red or purple rash. In some cases Stevens Johnson Syndrome may develop into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), a serious condition where sheets of skin detach from the body and slough off.

SJS Symptoms

In many patients Stevens Johnson Syndrome begins with flu-like symptoms. During this stage patients may experience fever, sore throat, fatigue, and/or a cough. Soon after, patients may develop blisters on the mucus membranes (eyes, nose, throat, and genital areas), widespread skin pain, a quickly spreading red or purple rash, hives, tongue swelling, and/or facial swelling.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome Lawsuits

Treating Stevens Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis can cause patients to spend weeks or even months in the hospital. Once released, many of these patients are left with overwhelming medical bills. Across the nation, attorneys are investigating cases of Stevens Johnson Syndrome linked to Onfi use. Potential settlements or awards from these Onfi Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawsuits may help many patients ease their burdensome debt.

A lawsuit against Lundbeck, the manufacturer of Onfi, may include claims of consumer protections law violations, or negligent or fraudulent failure to inform consumers of the risk of developing Stevens Johnson Syndrome associated with taking Onfi.