Many people take Advil for pain. It is commonly available in any drugstore or pharmacy. One does not need a prescription to purchase Advil.

A common over-the-counter pain reliever, Advil has been known, in some rare cases, to cause a life-threatening reaction called Advil Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

According to the company’s website, Advil is generally used to treat minor arthritis pain, headaches, muscle aches, backaches, migraines, toothaches, joint pain and menstrual pain. Advil has many products including Advil Liqui-gels, Advil Migraine, Advil Menstrual Pain, as well as Advil Children products and Advil cold and allergy products.

Advil’s active ingredient is ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID. NSAIDs are among the most common pain relief medications in the world. NSAIDs also can reduce fever, swelling and inflammation in the body. They work by blocking the effects of certain enzymes which can affect swelling and pain.Each day over 30 million Americans take an NSAID to relieve their pain in some way.

Common side effects from Advil may include upset stomach, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, headache, mild itching or rash and ringing in the ears.

Unfortunately, however, a more intense, life-threatening side affect can occur in some individuals known as Advil Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare allergic reaction that begins initially as a condition that at first looks like the flu. When a patient develops Advil Stevens Johnson Syndrome, a rash occurs on the body following the flu symptoms. After the rash, the condition then progresses to include brightly colored skin lesions.

This severe condition begins to affect the mucous membranes of the body including the mouth, nose and eyes. In some cases, Advil Stevens Johnson Syndrome can bring about eye complications like severe conjunctivitis, corneal blisters and holes and in rare cases, blindness.

Essentially, the dermis separates from the epidermis during SJS and the skin can slough off in large layers. This leaves the patient susceptible to infection. Many patients are treated in a burn ward in a hospital for Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

When Advil Stevens Johnson Syndrome progresses, it can turn into a condition known as toxic epidermal necrolysis, or TEN. TEN is a condition that covers even more of the body than Advil Stevens Johnson Syndrome and can be fatal. Both conditions are considered very dangerous and should be treated immediately.

If you believe that you or someone you love has suffered from Advil Stevens Johnson Syndrome, you may be able to hold the manufacturer responsible. A consultation with a knowledgeable pharmaceutical products attorney can give you a basic idea of your legal position and help you choose a course of action.