Zithromax (generic azithromycin) is a popular antibiotic often prescribed to patients suffering from bacterial infections. Zithromax is also commonly packaged as Z-pak or Zmax.

Zithromax can be taken orally or injected intravenously. It is used to treat respiratory infections, skin infections, ear infections, and some sexually transmitted diseases.

Many medical professionals also prescribe Zithromax for off-label uses, or uses not yet approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is legal for medical professionals to prescribe medications for off label uses, but drug manufacturers are not allowed to promote or advertise their medications for off-label uses.

Pfizer has recently faced several legal issues relating to the manufacture and marketing of Zithromax. The FDA warned Pfizer in 2012 that some of its promotional materials were not in compliance with federal rules and regulations.

The FDA warning suggested that the advertising materials were misleading because they downplayed the risks of using the medication while overstating the benefits of the drug. The FDA warning also noted that Zithromax’s advertising was promoting the medication for off-label uses.

One of the downplayed risks of using Zithromax includes developing Stevens Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN).

What is Stevens Johnson Syndrome?

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a rare but serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes. While the cause of Stevens Johnson Syndrome can vary, in many cases the condition is a result of an allergic reaction to various medications.

The disorder often begins with the presentment of flu-like symptoms. Victims often experience fever, sore mouth and throat, fatigue and cough. These symptoms eventually develop into more physical symptoms such as hives, facial swelling, blisters on the skin and mucous membrane, and a quickly spreading red or purplish rash.

In severe cases, patients may experience the shedding or sloughing off of patches of skin. Some cases of Stevens Johnson Syndrome develops into TEN. TEN patients share the same symptoms as SJS patients but the disease often covers a much larger expanse of the body.

Most SJS patients are usually treated in the burn unit of the hospital. Victims may need to remain hospitalized for weeks to several months depending on the severity of symptoms.

Zithromax Stevens Johnson Syndrome Lawsuits

Several Zithromax SJS lawsuits have been filed across the country in both state and federal courts. Awards and settlements from these Zithromax lawsuits will help victims pay both past and future medical bills as well as compensate victims for the pain and suffering they endured due to the side effects of the medication.

These Zithromax SJS lawsuits also help to hold large pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer responsible for their actions and remind these companies that they owe their consumers a duty of care.