Procardia is a medication used to treat problems such as angina, chest pains, and high blood pressure. Unfortunately, it is also linked to the potentially fatal Stevens Johnson Syndrome or SJS side effects.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is an autoimmune condition that is relatively unknown although hundreds are hospitalized each year. SJS side effects begin with a rash on the extremities on the face, arms and legs. Left untreated, however, SJS will begin to destroy the mucus membranes in the esophagus, eyes, nose and even the skin. In some cases, it progresses into its more severe form, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), also known as “skin death.”

SJS side effects can develop relatively quickly — sometimes within a day or two.

The World Health Organization has listed Procardia as one of the most important medications a country’s healthcare system can have. Not only is it used for chest pain, but also in certain cases of elevated blood pressure and even esophageal spasms, even though it does come with some dangerous Procardia side effects such as SJS.

SJS side effects are relatively rare for any medication, and toxic epidermal necrolysis even more so. Still, hundreds of people are diagnosed, and may require an induced coma during SJS treatment because of the pain involved. Frequent flareups because of the autoimmune condition are not uncommon either.

Instead, it is helpful whether starting Procardia, increasing the dosage, or even doing the same for any other medication to keep an eye out for the SJS rash. Treatment is critical. Always speak to a doctor about the risks and what to look out for when taking Procardia and other drugs.