Children Share Zithromax SJS Stories

SJS is an extreme skin reaction that begins as a rash but can spread overnight across the body, causing blisters which can lead to blindness. As the body burns internally, skin begins to fall off. It’s unbelievable when it happens to adults, but when it happens to children, Zithromax side effects become heartbreaking. Two children recently shared their Z-Pak side effects experience in their own words. Of course, these are two Zithromax victims who lived to tell about it.

Matthew (last name withheld) was just five years old when he contracted SJS from Zithromax. He was prescribed Z-Pak after developing an ear infection accompanied by a high fever. However, after just four days on Zithromax, he started showing signs of SJS syndrome. His parents rushed him to the Hunterdon Medical Clinic in New Jersey where the doctors were shockingly familiar with SJS—that isn’t often the case. When Stevens Johnson Syndrome is diagnosed and SJS symptoms are treated early, the SJS sufferer has a much better chance of surviving and recovering with minimal long-term damage. He was transferred to The Children’s Hospital in New Brunswick where he received the treatment he needed. Matthew says that he’s so happy to know there are other kids out there he can relate to since his experience is relatively unique.

Caleb McCourry from Oklahoma was seven years old when contracted SJS. He reports that his doctor diagnosed him with Mycoplasma Pneumonia and was put on a Zithromax regimen. He began showing SJS symptoms after five days, but was first misdiagnosed. His mom knew something was wrong, and began researching the possible issues herself. She’s the one who properly diagnosed Caleb with SJS, and his parents took him to the University of Oklahoma Children’s Hospital where doctors agreed with her diagnosis. He was hospitalized for 17 days. According to Caleb, “I am well now and have no side effects thank goodness. I like football, playing with my friends and riding my bike.” Thanks to the determination of Caleb’s mom, he can still enjoy these things—other children aren’t so lucky.

SJS symptoms can be difficult to diagnose largely because the condition is still so rare, even with Zithromax flooding the market. There’s no way to test for SJS syndrome, so doctors and healthcare workers simply need to be aware of the dangers. It can look like a minor rash in the beginning stages. The risk of SJS when taking Z-Pak is very real, though. Not all parents are as proactive or have the resources of Caleb’s mom, and not all doctors are as well informed as Matthew’s. 

Knowing the SJS Risks

It’s important that physicians and patients know all of the potential side effects of Zithromax—but herein lies the problem. According to the numerous Zithromax lawsuits around the country, the makers of Z-Pak don’t adequately warn anyone on the inserts, packaging or their website about the risk for SJS side effects from Zithromax. How can anyone be informed when the labels are subpar? According to complaints, this takes choice and making an informed decision out of everyone’s hands.

Do You Have a Z-Pak SJS Story?

Did you or someone close to you get SJS from Zithromax? You’re not alone, and might qualify for a Z-Pak legal claim. Learn more about what you can do at the Stevens Johnson (SJS) & Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. Share your story, and an SJS lawyer will contact you for a complimentary Zithromax claim review if you quality.