Zithromax, also known as azithromycin, has been linked to several serious side effects including Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS).

Azithromycin lawsuits may be filed against Pfizer, the makers of Zithromax and several other azithromycin containing products, for failing to warn consumers about the potential for a serious allergic reaction to azithromycin. Stevens Johnson Syndrome is such a reaction.

What is Azithromycin?

Azithromycin is the active ingredient in one of the United States most widely prescribed antibiotics known as Zithromax. Zithromax is manufactured and marketed by Pfizer, and is also marketed by the company under several other names such as Z-Pak and Zmax.

The medication is an antibiotic that is prescribed by medical professionals to treat various bacterial infections such as skin infections, respiratory infections, some sexually transmitted infections, and ear infections. Azithromycin works to kill bacteria infections by preventing the bacteria from producing proteins that are essential for their ability to replicate.

By blocking the bacteria’s ability to replicate the bacteria is unable to grow and increase in numbers and the spread of the infection is stopped. Once the spread of infection is stopped, the body’s immune system is able to kill the remaining bacteria or the bacteria eventually dies off. Unfortunately, some people have suffered serious side effects while taking Zithromax.

Azithromycin Side Effects

Azithromycin side effects may include liver failure, kidney failure, and Stevens Johnson Syndrome.   Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a severe allergic reaction, usually to drugs. It is a serious disorder of the skin and mucus membranes.  While there are several potential causes of Stevens Johnson Syndrome, one potential cause is an allergic reaction to azithromycin.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome generally begins with flu-like symptoms.  These symptoms last for a few days before physical symptoms begin to develop.  Physical symptoms can include facial and tongue swelling, hives, skin pain, a quickly spreading red or purple rash, and blisters on the skin and mucus membrane.  In truly severe cases the victim may experience the shedding of affected patches of skin.

In some cases, patients may develop toxic epidermal necrolysis commonly referred to as TEN.  TEN shares the same symptoms as Stevens Johnson Syndrome but covers a much larger area of the body.  Patients who are suffering physical symptoms of SJS should seek medical attention from a medical professional.

Treating Stevens Johnson Syndrome

Treating Stevens Johnson Syndrome may require hospitalization, possibly for weeks to several months. This can be very expensive for patients.  Treatment is generally focused on eliminating the symptoms of Stevens Johnson Syndrome.  This may require that the patient stop any medications that may be causing the condition.  Patients should not stop medications without first talking to a doctor.

Victims who have suffered from Stevens Johnson Syndrome while taking Zithromax may be able to join a free lawsuit investigation.  A lawsuit investigation can help victims determine if bringing a lawsuit is the right decision for them. Plaintiffs who bring successful lawsuits may be able to receive compensation for the adverse effects they experienced due to taking Zithromax.