Even though Prevacid has been in use since its release in 1995, OTC Prevacid Stevens Johnson Syndrome could be a potential danger to users.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is one of the deadliest reactions a patient can have to a medication, potentially resulting in death and permanent skin damage. Approximately 100 different medications have been associated with this condition, including over-the-counter (OTC) Prevacid.

Prevacid (lansoprazole) is often prescribed to treat ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Its over-the-counter variant is also available to patients at a lower strength grade and is commonly used to treat heartburn and acid reflux.

As a member of the proton pump inhibitor drug family, Prevacid works by limiting the amount of gastric acid produced in the stomach by binding a specific enzyme in the stomach wall.

According to a recent study conducted on ehealthme, a survey was conducted on Prevacid patients who reported experiencing side effects. These reports were collected through the FDA and social media sites, was conducted for a little less than one month and concluded on Feb. 22, 2017.

Out of the 48,2348 patients who reported side effects after taking Prevacid, 129 (0.27%) of the patients reported Stevens Johnson Syndrome. Even though this is a small percentage, any report of SJS should be taken seriously.

Furthermore, OTC Prevacid Stevens Johnson Syndrome should also be considered as a potential risk considering it contains the same ingredients as the prescription variant.

Overview of OTC Prevacid Stevens Johnson Syndrome

Patients who experience OTC Prevacid Stevens Johnson Syndrome can expect red or purple skin lesions to appear all over the body, potentially taking up 30% of skin surface area.

These infected skin areas will most likely peel off, exposing inner tissue to potential infection. Mucous membranes such as the eyes or throat will swell or close up, causing breathing obstructions.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome may cause internal damage to the patient’s organs and can result in death.

The condition progresses quickly and should be treated as soon as possible. The longer the condition goes without treatment, the worse it will be for patients. Patients who suffer from OTC Prevacid Stevens Johnson Syndrome may have issues with diagnosis because it is a very rare allergic reaction.

Patients should educate themselves on the condition and be aware of any initial SJS symptoms. Stevens Johnson Syndrome will occur within the first few weeks of the prescription and will begin with flu like symptoms.

Often, patients will need to be treated with skin grafts, and they may have to contend with permanent eyesight damage.

Patients who may have suffered OTC Prevacid Stevens Johnson Syndrome or any SJS drug reaction may be able to file legal action against the manufacturing company. Potential claimants should contact a knowledgeable lawyer to determine eligibility for a Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawsuit.