Zithromax (azithromycin), popularly known as a Z-Pak or Zmax, is a powerful antibiotic manufactured by pharmaceutical giant Pfizer.

In some cases, Zithromax can be taken for as little as one day, compared to other antibiotics, which require a week or longer.

While Zithromax has provided adult and pediatric patients with fast infection relief, it has also caused serious side effects, including the life-threatening skin reaction Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS).

Azithromycin belongs to a medication class called macrolide antibiotics. Azithromycin is designed to stop bacterial growth within the body. It can be used to treat several bacterial infections, but not the flu, colds, or other viral infections.

Zithromax comes in tablet and liquid forms and can be used to treat several types of infections in adults and children. The drug is FDA-approved to treat pediatric ear infections, pneumonia, and throat infections such as strep throat.

Zithromax can be used to treat adult conditions such as:

• Sinus infections
• Ear infections
• Skin infections
• Gastrointestinal infections such as traveler’s diarrhea
• Throat infections such as strep throat and tonsillitis
• Lung infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis
• Sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea

Zithromax SJS Side Effects

Zithromax side effects reportedly include an increased risk of SJS. At least one report has linked Zithromax side effects and the development of Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome, referred to as Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) in more serious cases, usually begins with a fever, sore throat, and headache. As SJS and TEN progress, patients develop skin lesions and blisters. SJS and TEN can affect mucous membranes in the mouth, throat, and eyelids. Eventually, the majority of patients’ skin may slough off.

In addition to external blistering some patients suffer internal burning, which can severely damage internal organs. Many patients with SJS and TEN are treated in hospital burn units because the loss of skin and risk of infection are similar to injuries suffered by burn victims.

Zithromax was linked to Steven Johnson Syndrome in one study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information. In that study, two cases of Zithromax SJS were discussed, including a 62-year-old woman who took Zithromax for an upper respiratory infection and developed SJS. The woman developed a rash on her hands, fever, chills, and discoloration around her eyes.

After treatment with corticosteroids, the woman made a full recovery. The other patient who developed SJS after using Zithromax in this study was a child.

However, not all Zithromax SJS sufferers survive, and those who do are sometimes left with permanent injuries, such as vision problems, difficulty eating, and scarring.

Zithromax Lawsuits

Patients who have been injured from Zithromax may be eligible to file a lawsuit against Pfizer. Zithromax victims may be entitled to financial compensation to cover the costs of medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. In the case of a death from Zithromax SJS, family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim to receive compensation for their loss.

Zithromax patients or family members who wish to file a claim against Pfizer should seek a knowledgeable and experienced attorney. An attorney can discuss legal options and the best course of action.