Dozens of Zithromax lawsuits have been filed across the United States against the pharmaceutical manufacturer Pfizer, alleging that the drug manufacturer failed to warn the medical community and the general public about dangerous side effects associated with using the medication. One of the serious side effects associated with taking Zithromax is Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

Zithromax, generically known as azithromycin, is a popular antibiotic prescribed by medical professionals in the United States. Zithromax can be prescribed to treat a variety of diseases and conditions, which include skin infections, ear infections, bacterial infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. Zithromax is also sold under the name Z-Pak or Zmax.

Recently Zithromax and its off-brands have received national media attention due to some of the serious side effects associated with taking the medication. Some of these side affects include liver failure, kidney failure, birth defects, allergic reactions, and Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

What is Stevens Johnson Syndrome?

Stevens Johnson Syndome is a serious condition of the skin and mucus membranes. The condition can be caused by a variety of factors but is generally caused by an allergic reaction to medications or certain human viruses.

Medications that can trigger Stevens Johnson Syndrome include anti-gout medications, pain relievers such as Advil and Aleve, seizure medications and medications the fight infections like Zithromax.

In the beginning, Stevens Johnson Syndrome symptoms usually appear similar to flu-like symptoms. These symptoms usually include fever, cough, burning eyes, and sore mouth and throat. After several days more physical symptoms usually begin to develop.

This includes facial swelling, tongue swelling, hives, blisters on the skin and mucus membranes, and a quickly spreading red or purplish rash. In severe cases a person may experience the shedding of large patches of skin.  Persons who experience these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

In some cases, Stevens Johnson Syndrome will develop into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, or TEN. TEN mimics Stevens Johnson Syndrome in terms of symptoms and development but the condition covers a much larger expanse of the body.

Treatment for Stevens Johnson Syndrome usually occurs in the burn unit of the hospital and recovery focuses on relieving symptoms and keeping the patient hydrated. Many medical professionals describe the condition as one where the patient’s skin is burning from the inside out. Treatment can require several weeks to several months of hospitalization.