Patients who have suffered Fentanyl adverse drug reactions such as Stevens Johnson Syndrome may filed lawsuits against the drug maker.

These Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawsuits may allege that the drug maker failed to warn the medical community and the general public about dangerous side effects associated with the medication.

Fentanyl is a fast acting narcotic and sedative that is often used as a pain reliever for patients suffering from chronic pain or post surgery pain. It is often prescribed when other pain medications no longer work.

Fentanyl was first Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved in September 2006. Since then the medication has become increasingly popular.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome Drug Reactions

Unfortunately, some patients who have taken Fentanyl have suffered serious drug reactions after using the medication. One of these side effects is Steven Johnson Syndrome, often referred to as SJS. Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a serious allergic reacion of the skin and mucus membranes.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome often begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore mouth, fatigue, and burning eyes. One of the most identifiable symptoms includes a drug rash which appears as quickly spreading red or purple lesions.

Other physical symptoms aside from drug rash can include hives, facial swelling, and skin pain. The lesions show as blisters on the skin and mucus membranes, and can progress to the shedding of skin layers.

In certain cases, Stevens Johnson Syndrome may develop into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, (TEN). TEN presents itself with the same symptoms as SJS, such as a quickly spreading drug rash, blisters, etc., but the condition effects a much larger portion of the body.

According to John Hopkins Medicine, the major risk from SJS is that the skin peels in sheets, leaving large areas of the body exposed. The raw areas become easily infected without the protective layer of skin. John Hopkins Medicine suggests that while SJS and TEN can result from a variety of causes, the majority of cases are due to allergic reactions to medications.

Treatment for SJS and TEN

SJS and TEN are quickly progressing diseases. Treatment usually requires hospitalization and isolation in order to prevent infection. Patients are often treated in the burn ward of the hospital and are given intravenous fluids and electrolytes to counter the fluid loss.

If SJS or TEN has occurred as a result from an allergic reaction to medication, the patient’s treating medical professional will often discontinue the offending drug. Patients should not stop medications without seeking the advice of a medical professional.

Fentanyl SJS and TEN Lawsuits

Patients who have developed SJS or TEN after taking Fentanyl may be able to bring a lawsuit against the pharmaceutical manufacturer. These lawsuits may allege that the pharmaceutical company violated consumer protection laws. Patients who bring successful Fentanyl lawsuits may receive compensation for their past and future medical bills, and the pain and suffering they have endured.

Lawsuits can generally be brought by the victims themselves or by family members who have lost loved ones due to Fentanyl drug reactions. Deciding to bring a lawsuit is a decision that should be made after careful consideration of all the facts and circumstances. Legal professionals can assist victims with their decision on whether or not a Fentanyl lawsuit should be brought.