Dilantin is one of a number of epilepsy drugs that carries a black-box warning for Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), a rare disease that attacks the mucus membranes in the throat, eyes and skin, among parts of the body. However, based on the most common causes, raising epilepsy awareness could help.

There are no sure treatments for the convulsive disorder except removing sections of the brain. As a result, patients must find a treatment that works for them. Doctors commonly prescribe Dilantin and Lamictal among others because they are generics and therefore less expensive than name-brand drugs. However, many epileptics have issues with adhering to a drug regimen and it could result in Dilantin side effects.

At the Cleveland Clinic, one doctor dispelled some myths about these patients. There is no link between mental health issues, intelligence or even work performance. So one thing that would benefit younger epilepsy sufferers especially would be spreading awareness that many of these ideas simply are not true. The Cleveland Clinic article does not touch on it, but one benefit could be the reduction of Dilantin SJS side effects, which have led to Dilantin SJS lawsuits.

SJS can happen any time someone is taking a medication. However, it is most common when a patient is starting a drug or increasing its dosage. So if people who have epilepsy are willing to continue taking the same dosage, then the risk should be lessened, although it is unclear as to what amount.

It is important to know the warning signs for Stevens Johnson Syndrome, because immediate treatment can minimize some of the complications, including skin death as a result of toxic epidermal necrolysis, also known as TEN. Seek immediate medical attention if you see a rash on the face or extremities accompanied by a fever and chills. It’s the same advice printed in the drug safety packet regarding Dilantin SJS warnings.