Dilantin (phenytoin) is one of America’s oldest and most trusted antiepileptic medications, but it has been linked to numerous severe side effects over the years.

In particular, the occurrence of Dilantin skin reaction has caused major concern due to the drug’s alleged connection with Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS).

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is an extreme skin reaction most often caused by one or more medications. It’s often characterized by the appearance of red or purple skin lesions.

Cases of SJS skin lesions can take up to 30% of skin surface area, along with organ damage and swelling of mucus membranes of the throats.

Its more extreme cousin, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), comes with the same symptoms but is much more aggressive with lesions covering up to 90% of the patient’s skin.

Overview of Dilantin Skin Reaction Complications

Both SJS and TEN are potentially fatal results of a Dilantin skin reaction, which can start out as simple as rash.

However the beginning symptoms of SJS and TEN are often flu like symptoms, and they can occur within the first few weeks of starting the medication.

Fortunately, most cases of Dilantin skin reaction are not normally this severe. It is also important to note that Stevens Johnson Syndrome is an extremely rare occurrence, with medical experts currently unsure of why only certain patients suffer this reaction or which medications induce it.

According to one recent study, patients of Asian descent with the gene allele HLA-B*1602 may be more prone to Stevens Johnson Syndrome and may have a general sensitivity to Dilantin skin reaction.

However the age range of patients in whom SJS can occur is wide: the condition has been reported in both adults and children.

This condition is potentially fatal and often progresses quickly, often leaving survivors with permanent skin scarring or some degree of eyesight damage.

Often patients suffering from either SJS or TEN have to be treated in the burn units of hospitals to replace lost skin. Furthermore, Stevens Johnson Syndrome survivors often have to remain vigilant for any signs of recurrence.

While Pfizer has addressed Stevens Johnson syndrome on Dilantin’s warning label since 2011, that warning still does not eliminate the danger.

Ever since the drug’s approval in 1953, there have been at least 100 different Dilantin lawsuits alleging serious side effects and complications.

Many patients who filed legal action allege they were unaware of the additional risks associated with Dilantin.

Dilantin patients who suffered either SJS or TEN may be able to file legal action against Pfizer or a generic manufacturer. Potential claimants should contact a specialized lawyer to determine their eligibility for a Dilantin SJS lawsuit.