Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is one of the most devastating medication reactions a patient can have, potentially resulting in death if not treated properly.

Luckily this reaction is extremely rare, with only 300 cases diagnosed per year in the United States, with only a handful of medications documented to have caused the reaction.

However, scientists are wary against any potential SJS like reactions from both prescription and over the counter medications.

Cipro and Stevens Johnson Syndrome is one of the correlations the medical community is concerned over, due to the drug’s popularity and the condition’s severity.

As one of the most popular fluoroquinolone antibiotics, Cipro (Ciprofloxacin) is prescribed to thousands of patients to treat bacterial infections.

Particularly popular in treating urinary tract and respiratory infections, Cipro has been on the market since 1987.

Even though this medication has a number of severe side effects, Cipro and Stevens Johnson Syndrome is perhaps the most serious.

At this point in time, scientists are unsure as to why Stevens Johnson Syndrome only affects certain patients and has only been documented in only certain medications.

However patients with a history of drug sensitivity may be more at risk for the reaction, or if they have already suffered Stevens Johnson Syndrome from a previous medication.

At this point in time, approximately 100 medications have been documented to cause an SJS reaction.

Patients and prescribing physicians worried over Cipro and Stevens Johnson Syndrome should be wary for early signs of the reaction.

If a patient begins to suffer SJS, the onset of symptoms will be fast and aggressive.

The symptoms will most likely occur within the first few weeks of starting the medication, and will begin with flu like symptoms, but the reaction can begin even after a long period of no trouble with the medication.

Cipro and Stevens Johnson Syndrome Complications

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is often characterized by the red or purple skin lesions, which can consume up to 30% of skin surface area.

The dead skin then detaches, opening up inner tissue and muscle for potential infection. Other serious SJS symptoms include swelling of the throat and mouth, as well as other mucous membranes like the eyes.

This condition can be potentially fatal, as SJS can induce potential organ damage and can progress very quickly.

Oftentimes, skin grafts are needed to replenish lost flesh, with patients often treated in hospital burn units.

Patients also often needs the assistance of feeding tubes, as their throat swelling makes them unable to swallow and causes breathing difficulties.

Patients who are lucky enough to survive SJS often have to remain vigilant against potential recurrence.

Cipro and Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a serious concern to both the patient population and the medical community, as many patients may be at risk for a potential SJS reaction.

Even though Stevens Johnson Syndrome is potentially fatal, several drug manufacturing companies have been accused of leaving this information off their drugs’ warning labels.

Patients who experienced Stevens Johnson Syndrome may be able to file legal action. Potential claimants should contact a specialized lawyer to determine eligibility.