Azithromycin (Zithromax) is one of the most popularly used antibiotics in the United States, even though it has been linked to numerous severe reactions.

One of these reactions is Stevens Johnson Syndrome. Other reports link certain skin reactions to azithromycin, which can cause permanent and irreversible damage to the patient’s skin.

However Stevens Johnson Syndrome is one of the most severe skin reactions to azithromycin and can be potentially fatal if not treated.

Other reported skin reactions to azithromycin include blistering, crusting or other forms of general skin irritations.

Skin reactions are often a common indicator of drug allergies, with rashes developing in hives and continually spreading as itchy sensations overtake the patients.

Even if these cases do not develop into SJS, patients should still report these suspected azithromycin skin reactions to doctors immediately.

Cases of Stevens Johnson Syndrome are an extremely rare occurrence in the United States, with only 300 diagnoses a year.

Overview of Stevens Johnson Syndrome

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is an extremely rare and dangerous allergic skin reaction, specifically caused by one or more medications.

It is often characterized by red or purple skin lesions that appear all over the body, which quickly peel off and expose internal tissue and muscle to potential infection.

These lesions also appear on the mucus membranes of the body, such as the eye lids and throat, which can obstruct breathing and the ability to swallow. Like most other allergic reactions, Stevens Johnson Syndrome progresses aggressively and can turn deadly in a very short amount of time.

In the most extreme cases, SJS can develop into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) that has the same symptoms but can potentially cover over 90% of the body in skin lesions compared to the 30% coverage from SJS.

Typically SJS patients have to be treated in the burn units of hospitals to replenish lost skin. Patients who survive Stevens Johnson Syndrome often have to contend with some form of skin damage or degree of blindness.

In addition, patients who suffer Stevens Johnson Syndrome have an increased chance of recurrence. Even though Stevens Johnson Syndrome is one of the most severe skin reactions to Azithromycin, it is not mentioned on the product’s warning label.

Patients who have already suffered SJS in alleged result of taking Azithromycin, may be able to file legal action against manufacturing companies. Potential claimants should contact a specialized lawyer to determine their eligibility for an Azithromycin SJS lawsuit.