Ibuprofen SJS (Stevens Johnson Syndrome) is a serious concern for many individuals, as this popular pain reliever is linked to one of the most severe drug reactions. The FDA has already received notice from patient advocates regarding ibuprofen SJS, after several cases were reported.

In February 2005, a small group of physicians and victim’s families had contacted the FDA to warn the public regarding ibuprofen SJS. According to this group, approximately four in every one million patients taking ibuprofen develop Stevens Johnson Syndrome or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis.

According to Medwatch, reports of ibuprofen SJS have been steadily increasing over the years. Many ibuprofen based medications are sold with no SJS warning, with Children’s Advil not including this possibility until May 2006.

There are currently several ibuprofen based medications with the SJS warning, but the FDA does not require the manufacturers to include the SJS possibility on these specific medications. The medications with the ibuprofen SJS warning are primarily for children including Children’s Advil Suspension, Children’s Advil Cold, and Infant’s Advil Concentrated Drops.

Ibuprofen belongs to a medication class alleged non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are designed to quickly resolve pain without the dangerous side effects often associated with steroids or narcotics.

Advil has been on the market since 1973, and is considered the first non-aspirin and non-acetaminophen based non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drug. Steroids sometimes cause side effects because they mimic hormones, and can even suppress immune system functions.

However, this medication has been linked to a number of serious side effects, with Stevens Johnson Syndrome and TEN (Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis) being among the most severe.

Overview of Stevens Johnson Syndrome Complications

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is an extremely rare allergic skin reaction, most often caused by adverse drug reactions.

This condition is often characterized by red or purple skin lesions that appear all over the body, which later peel off and expose the lower layers of skin to potential infection. In addition to infection, the lesions can form inside the throat and mouth that can lead to difficulties breathing and swallowing.

If allowed to progress, SJS lesions can consume more than 30% of skin surface area and potentially results in death. Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis is a more aggressive version of SJS. TEN skin lesions can take up as much as 90% of skin surface and progresses at a much faster rate.

Patients who suffer an SJS reaction with begin with experiencing flu-like symptoms, which will often occur during the first weeks of starting the medication. Patients lucky enough to survive SJS often have to contend with permanent skin damage and compromised eyesight, as well as being forced to stay vigilant for any signs of recurrence.

Ibuprofen SJS is a potentially fatal reaction that manufacturers have the responsibility of warning against, affected patients have claimed. Patients who experience this reaction may be eligible to file an ibuprofen SJS lawsuit against the manufacturer for failing to properly warn consumers about the possible adverse effects.