Those who must take Dilantin to treat their epilepsy may be at risk for Dilantin Stevens Johnson syndrome, a possible life-threatening side effect.

Dilantin, generically known as phenytoin, has been prescribed for decades to treat epilepsy and other seizure disorders.

It works by slowing down the impulses in the brain that cause seizures. Dilantin was originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1953 for treating seizures. It is now manufactured by Pfizer.

It has been used to treat generalized and partial tonic clonic seizures and complex partial seizures and is often used during neurosurgery to prevent seizures than may occur.

Dilantin has many possible side effects. According to drugs.com, these include congenital anomalies, hepatic necrosis, ataxia, confusion, constipation, depression, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, hypertrichosis, mental status changes, myasthenia, nervousness, numbness, tremor, tremor of hands, vertigo, excitement, irritability, mood changes and restlessness.

Dilantin Stevens Johnson syndrome is also another possible life-threatening side effect of Dilantin.

Stevens Johnson syndrome is a rare condition that can come as a reaction to a drug. In the case of Dilantin Stevens Johnson syndrome, Dilantin use is the drug that triggers this disorder. The FDA even warned against a possible increased risk of Stevens Johnson syndrome while taking Dilantin.

Stevens Johnson syndrome, or SJS, is an autoimmune disorder that presents initially with flu-like symptoms. Because of this, it is often difficult to diagnose in the very beginning stages.

However, a patient who has Dilantin Stevens Johnson syndrome will then develop a rash over much of their body. This rash then turns into large, brightly colored skin lesions.

Dilantin Stevens Johnson syndrome causes cellular death of the skin and causs the dermis to separate from the epidermis. SJS can also attack the mucous membranes of the body including the mouth and the eyes.

When the effects of Dilantin Stevens Johnson syndrome reach the eyes, they can cause permanent scarring as well as conjunctivitis, corneal blisters and holes. This can lead to permanent blindness.

If Dilantin Stevens Johnson syndrome is not treated properly, it can lead to a condition known as toxic epidermal necrolysis, or TEN.

Toxic epidermal necrolysis is when SJS spreads to a large part of the body. This can be a deadly condition and it should be treated immediately by medical professionals. Recovery from Dilantin Stevens Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis can be slow and may take up to several months.

If you or someone you love has developed Dilantin Stevens Johnson syndrome, you may be entitled to legal compensation.