The antibiotic Zithromax is currently under investigation for causing severe side effects in a number of its users. The drug is only prescribed for short term treatment, but despite the short exposure, many individuals have suffered from Zithromax side effects such as liver and kidney failure, birth defects, and Zithromax SJS (Stevens Johnson Syndrome).

Patients have claimed that they were not adequately warned against these dangerous Zithromax side effects, and many may not have even heard of Zithromax SJS until they experienced the painful drug reaction firsthand.

About Stevens Johnson Syndrome

Stevens Johnson Syndrome, or SJS, is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack the skin. Patients suffer from extreme blisters and rashes that can spread across the skin and mucous membranes (such as the nose, mouth, and eyes).

Stevens Johnson Syndrome symptoms begin with flu-like symptoms before a red or purplish rash develops and turn into painful blisters. The blisters can cause the skin to shed, leaving sores and wounds on the body. Because of this, SJS patients must be hospitalized immediately.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome patients can have up to 30 percent of their body affected by SJS side effects. Many suffer from secondary complications such as infection, sepsis, or organ damage. Some patients are left permanently blind if the disease affects the eyes.

If the rash and blisters cover more than 30 percent of the body, then it is called Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis or TEN. TEN patients can lose large amounts of skin in large sheets. For some, 90 percent of their epidermal layer of skin (the top layer) was lost due to TEN. TEN patients are often treated in hospitals’ burn wards due to the danger and severity of the skin loss and the similarity to fire burns.

Recovery from SJS and TEN can take up to several months of treatment and therapy depending on the severity of the case. Complete recovery such as hair regrowth can take even longer.

Roughly 1 in 20 SJS patients die from the disease or following complications. Forty percent of TEN cases are fatal.

Though both conditions are rare, they are almost always caused by a reaction to a drug. This has caused many to be concerned over potential SJS side effects. Some patients have claimed they experienced Zithromax SJS side effects, stating that it was the popular antibiotic that caused them to suffer from this terribly condition.

Zithromax Lawsuits

As a result of Zithromax SJS and other Zithromax side effects, dozens of Zithromax lawsuits have been filed against the drug manufacturer for failing to warn against dangerous, potentially deadly side effects. Zithromax lawsuits may be able to help victims win compensation for the pain and suffering caused by the antibiotic as well as to help pay for any medical expenses and loss of wages.