Zithromax (azithromycin), an antibiotic most commonly recognized as Z-Pak or Zmax, has been linked to the dangerous allergic reaction Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

Zmax has quickly become a popularly prescribed antibiotic, partially because it boasts a shorter prescription time than many other antibiotics on the market. Zithromax is widely prescribed to treat numerous types of infections and illnesses including pneumonia, strep throat, tonsillitis, STDs, ear infections, and staph infections. The antibiotic drug is manufactured and marketed by pharmaceutical giant Pfizer Inc., and has been prescribed to over 40 million patients worldwide.

Zithromax is gaining in popularity, as it allows patients to take fewer doses in order to treat the same types of infections treated by other antibiotics. The powerful nature of Zithromax translates to only a few days of treatment, versus a week or longer with many other antibiotics. Despite its popularity, however, Zithromax complications are numerous and include the rare but potentially fatal allergic skin reaction known as Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

Zithromax has found success in treating a number of bacterial infections. However, new evidence is arising that Zithromax can lead to fatal complications such as Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

What is Stevens Johnson Syndrome?

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a potentially fatal allergic skin reaction to some medications, including Zithromax. Zithromax SJS symptoms often start with skin lesions, fever, headache, sore throat, and blisters.

The condition can affect the skin so much that it sloughs off, leaving patients vulnerable to infection. In addition to affecting the skin and mucous membranes, patients’ eyesight can potentially be damaged. Patients who are lucky enough to survive their ordeal may suffer from permanent injuries including scarring, light sensitivity, and respiratory problems.

Zithromax SJS

Multiple studies and reports have linked Zithromax to the development of Stevens Johnson Syndrome, including a 2006 study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information

This Zithromax study examined two cases of Zithromax SJS. In one of the cases, a 62-year-old woman took Zithromax for an upper respiratory infection and developed Stevens Johnson Syndrome after taking the antibiotic. She developed a severe rash, flu-like symptoms and discoloration around her eyes. Luckily, after intense treatment, the woman recovered.

Zithromax SJS Lawsuits

While Stevens Johnson Syndrome is rare, treatment is extensive and painful. Those who have experienced Zithromax SJS or lost a loved one from Stevens Johnson Syndrome may be entitled to file a Zithromax lawsuit to help recover the costs of medical bills, as well as compensation for pain and suffering.