A popular antibiotic can cause azithromycin SJS side effects.

This painful skin reaction called Stevens Johnson Syndrome causes severe blistering of the skin and mucous membranes.

Azithromycin is often prescribed to treat strep throat, respiratory infections, tonsillitis, ear infections, sinus infections, urinary tract infections and some skin infections such as impetigo.

Pfizer manufactures and sells the brand name version, Zithromax.

What Is Stevens Johnson Syndrome?

Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a severe allergic reaction to medication that begins with a fever and rash, but progresses to blistering, painful skin peeling, open sores, and it can be fatal in 5% to 15% of cases. In Stevens Johnson Syndrome, the skin experiences an excruciating chemical burn from the inside out.

Sores can even develop in the eyes, causing severe pain and blindness.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome can quickly progress to full-blown Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), causing victims to shed large sheets of skin that come off of the body in addition to painful sores in the mouth, eyes and vagina.

Even though only 300 new cases of Stevens Johnson Syndrome are diagnosed each year in the United States, they are all linked to medications.

A class action lawsuit against the drug manufacturer can be the only way patients receive compensation for their medical bills, pain and suffering and other expenses.

Because it is impossible to know which rashes will develop into a full-blown case of SJS, all rashes should be reported to a doctor.

Azithromycin Side Effects

Azithromycin can cause side effects that include allergic skin rash, joint pain, headache, swelling, itching, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness and abdominal pain.

In rare instances, it can cause liver damage, aggressive behavior, vaginal inflammation and anxiety.

Azithromycin side effects can affect many different organs and systems in the body.

NIH Documents Azithromycin SJS Side Effects

The National Institutes of Health documented the case of a 62-year-old woman confirmed to have azithromycin SJS side effects.

“Ellen” was admitted for evaluation of a severe rash. Ten days prior to admission she was taking azithromycin for an upper respiratory tract infection. After a few days she was feeling better but a flat, discolored rash developed over her palms, accompanied by fever and chills as well as reddish discoloration around her eyes.

Within a few days, the rash had spread to her feet. Routine blood tests ruled out inflammatory rheumatic disease.

Ellen was experiencing azithromycin SJS side effects. Methylprednisolone, a steroid, calmed her symptoms, and, fortunately, her condition improved in several days as her fever went away and her skin lesions gradually disappeared.

If you or someone you know has suffered from azithromycin SJS side effects, you could be eligible for compensation through a class action lawsuit.