Cerebyx, an anti-epileptic treatment, is an injectable medication and commonly referred to as fosphenytoin.

While, it has been very effective in controlling abnormal brain activity, there have been reports that Cerebyx side effects may lead to a serious allergic reaction that attacks the mucous membranes referred to as Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

Cerebyx Side Effects: Stevens Johnson Syndrome

Stevens Johnson Syndrome, which is also known as SJS, is a debilitating and potentially fatal condition, where the skin burns from the inside out. It is associated with the development of a severe rash and blisters that can occur in the mouth, ears, eyes, nose or genitals.

In 2008, the FDA issued a warning that some Asians who carry a certain gene known as HLA-B*1502, could face an increased risk of suffering Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), as a result of Cerebyx side effects.

A blood test or genetic test can be used to identify the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) allele, HLA-B*1502.

The statement, posted by the FDA on November 24, 2008, indicated that “[b]ecause this new data suggests a possible association between HLA-B*1502 and phenytoin or fosphenytoin-induced SJS/TEN, and because of the known association between phenytoin and SJS/TEN, healthcare providers should consider avoiding phenytoin and fosphenytoin as alternatives for carbamazepine in patients who test positive for HLA-B*1502.”

Other Stevens Johnson Syndrome Causes

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a very serious condition, which can be fatal in about 5% to 15% of the worst cases. It often requires treatment in a hospital burn unit or ICU, and can lead to blindness, organ damage and substantial scarring.

While Cerebyx side effects may be one of the most common trigger of the rare allergic reaction, they are not the only Stevens Johnson Syndrome causes.

In May 2011, a New Orleans high school school, Jasmin B., became seriously ill and spent weeks in the hospital with lesions covering the majority of her body.

It took doctors days to conclude that she was suffering from Stevens Johnson Syndrome, triggered by none other than over-the-counter medications Tylenol and Motrin.

“I never, ever thought it would be something like this. I just thought it was like chicken pox or something. I guess like an allergic reaction,” Jasmin said in 2011.

Luckily Jasmin survived but as a result of Stevens Johnson Syndrome, she has been forced to undergo numerous surgeries to repair the damage to her skin, eyes, and genitalia.

With more surgeries to come and a long recovery ahead of her, Jasmin and her family took the makers of Tylenol and Motrin to court, alleging they failed to properly warn patients about the potential risk of developing Stevens Johnson Syndrome on the drugs’ labels.

Jasmin’s legal battle came to an end this month, when Johnson & Johnson’s subsidiary McNeil Consumer Healthcare agreed to settle her lawsuit for an undisclosed amount.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome Lawsuits

If you or a loved one suffered Stevens Johnson Syndrome as a result of Cerebyx side effects or other drug side effects, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and medical expenses.

An experienced dangerous drug attorney can review your case for free and can help you determine if filing a Stevens Johnson Syndrome is the best recourse for you.