Severe Dilantin side effects have reportedly landed patients in hospitals, with cases that have developed into Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS). This severe allergic skin reaction has been linked to Dilantin skin side effects for a number of years, with the alleged correlation featured in a number of studies and product liability claims.

Dilantin has been approved by the FDA since 1953 to treat grand mal seizures and other epileptic conditions. The antiepileptic medication works by slowing down the electrical signals in the brain, which ultimately prevents the onset of seizures.

Even though Dilantin is considered one of America’s oldest and most reliable antiepilpetic medications, it has been linked to a number of severe side effects including Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

Overview of Dilantin Stevens Johnson Syndrome Correlation

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is an extremely rare and severe skin reaction, most often caused by an allergic reaction to one or more medications. This condition is often characterized by red or purple skin lesions that appear on the body, which causes the skin to detach and expose inner tissue to potential infection.

This condition can be potentially fatal, so it needs to be treated as soon as possible. However with fewer than 1,000 cases of SJS diagnosed per year in the United States, it is important for patient to be aware of possible Dilantin skin side effects:

• Red or Purple Skin Lesions on the Surface Area of Skin
• Unusual Rashes
• Blisters formed in Mouth, Throat, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and even Genital Area
• Swelling of Eyelids
• Fever and other Flu-like Symptoms

Due to the severity of Dilantin skin side effects, the FDA had required the drug’s warning label to include potential SJS like reactions in November 2008.

At this time, the medical community is not sure what exactly causes Stevens Johnson Syndrome but have identified several factors that may increase likelihood. Recent studies have suggested patients taking more one medication at one time, and having sensitivities to medications. Patients who develop Stevens Johnson Syndrome, often have to contend with invasive treatment procedures.

Patients with large areas of peeling skin may need skin grafts, and they may be treated in the burn units of hospitals. In addition to the external damage, patients may suffer internal organ damage as well as permanent skin damage and eye sight damage. Later, patients need to be vigilant against any signs of recurrence.

Many patients have filed legal action for alleged Dilantin skin side effects, with at least 100 different Dilantin SJS lawsuits filed. These claimants allege Pfizer Inc. had known about the risk of Dilantin skin side effects, but failed to notify the public.

In one Dilantin SJS lawsuit filed from October 2010, the claimant alleged a nine year old patient dies from Dilantin SJS after taking the medication for less than a month. The Dilantin SJS lawsuit was reportedly settled for $3.78 million from Pfizer Inc. Other patients who allegedly suffered Dilantin skin side effects, may be able to file their own legal action.