GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is facing a class action investigation after numerous patients have reportedly developed serious complications like anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome after taking their drug Lamictal.

Anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome is just one of several major complications associated with Lamictal, with patients also reporting serious allergic skin reactions Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN).

There have been several cases of anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome linked with Lamictal, including one 2008 case study published in the Primary Care Companion to the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.

This case study revolved around an adult female patient who was prescribed Lamictal for her bipolar disorder but had reportedly developed anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome soon after starting the prescription.

According to the case study, the woman was prescribed Lamictal in February 2006 and had no prior history relating to drug or food allergies. However, she reportedly developed a serious rash just four weeks after starting the Lamictal medication and had also suffered fever, cough, oral ulcers, and facial rash.

She was eventually diagnosed with anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome and had received treatment for several weeks. The case study noted that anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome can occur within the first eight to 12 weeks of Lamictal treatment, starting with a fever and persistent cough.

Overview of Anticonvulsant Hypersensitivity Syndrome

Lamictal is one of the most reliable anticonvulsants available in the United States and is often prescribed to patients suffering from serious mental disorders like bipolar disorder. However, a number of patients have reportedly linked to a number of serious drug reactions.

Anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome is a severe and unusual reaction to a medication and can impact several internal organ systems. Also known as drug hypersensitivity syndrome, this is a relatively rare drug reaction that primarily occurs in adult patients.

The most common drugs associated with this reaction are anticonvulsants and is estimated to occur in at least one in every 10,000 patients treated with an anticonvulsant like Lamictal.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome, including genetics and other drug sensitivities. It is important to note that patients with a history of drug sensitivity or are on more than one medication, the likelihood of the anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome.

The case study has noted that anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome can be potentially fatal, and should be treated as soon as possible. Lamictal patients who may be at risk for developing anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome should be wary of any unusual symptoms including:

• Sudden High Fever
• Widespread Skin Rash
• Face Swelling
• Mucus Swelling in the Lips, Mouth, Throat, and Genitals

The skin rash from this condition can last weeks and potentially months, even after drug withdrawal. In addition to the adverse skin reactions, patients should be wary of any potential kidney damage, lung disease, and even the beginning stages of meningitis. On this note, patients should never discontinue medication without consulting their physicians.

The recent correlation between Lamictal and anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome has caused major concern in the medical community and has garnered negative public attention for GlaxoSmithKline. Lamictal patients who may have developed anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome may be eligible to file legal action for any damages suffered.