Dilantin Class Action v. Mass Tort: What is the Best Legal Option?
By Andrea Gressman
Dilantin, an anti-epileptic drug used treat certain types of seizures, has been linked to a number of very serious side effects. As a result, a number of side effect victims and/or their families have filed Dilantin lawsuits in order to receive the compensation they need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Because there have been so many Dilantin lawsuits filed against the manufacturer it has opened up the possibility of a number of different Dilantin class action lawsuits and mass torts to being filed.
Dilantin Class Action Lawsuit vs. Mass Tort
You typically hear about class action lawsuits but now the term “mass tort” is becoming more popular as well. However, it may be confusing to know what the difference is between the two.
A Dilantin class action lawsuit is a legal proceeding that involves a single case filed on behalf of a group of victims who share similar injuries, have similarly been harmed, have suffered in a similar manner, have similar circumstances, or have similar potential damages. When multiple Dilantin lawsuits are consolidated into a class action it is done so to create “judicial economy.” This streamlines the litigation process when it comes to large numbers of plaintiffs alleging similar claims of injury. However, there is one outcome issued for the entire group instead of an individual settlement awarded to each victim. That is where a mass tort becomes a benefit.
A Dilantin mass tort, like a Dilantin class action, involves a group of Dilantin lawsuits. But mass torts vary from class actions in several aspects. Mass tort claims can cover a range of issues that is broader than what a class action lawsuit offers, and even though the legal proceedings are combined, the person who files a Dilantin mass tort lawsuit maintains their individual claim and will receive a settlement based on his or her individual circumstances.
There are a number of Dilantin side effects that could allow you to seek compensation through either a class action lawsuit or mass tort claim. An experienced Dilantin lawsuit attorney will be able to advise you on the best option for your individual situation. Here are a few of the legal options you may have.
Dilantin Lawsuit for Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS)
One of the most serious side effects Dilantin has been linked to causing is Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS). This is where an allergic reaction occurs and the results can be fatal. Stevens Johnson Syndrome often starts out as a rash but then this rash can develop into very painful blisters that are the equivalent of a third-degree burn. This occurs because the epidermis layer of the skin begins to separate from the dermis layer of the skin.
This is an extremely painful condition that can even affect the victim’s eyes. In fact, it has been reported that scar-tissue can actually form on the inside of the person’s eyelids, which can affect their vision. Although many in the medical community do say that Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is rare, there are approximately 300 patients diagnosed with SJS every year. It has also been reported that Stevens Johnson Syndrome has a 5% mortality rate.
Dilantin Lawsuit for Birth Defect Victims
Dilantin has also been associated with causing a number of birth defects when the mother of the child takes Dilantin during her pregnancy. Some of these side effects include the following:
- Cardiac defects
- Growth abnormalities (includes microcephaly)
- Mental deficiencies
- Orofacial clefts
Dilantin Lawsuit for Purple Glove Syndrome
Purple Glove Syndrome, referred to as PGS, is also a skin disease like Stevens Johnson Syndrome. However with PGS the legs and arms become discolored and swollen. This is very painful. In the most severe cases PGS leads to the limbs being amputated.
PGS reportedly affects the elderly in most side effect cases and is the result of the side effect victim receiving high doses of Dilantin intravenously.
If you or someone you love has experienced a Dilantin side effect, including Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), birth defects, or Purple Glove Syndrome it is important that you contact a Dilantin lawsuit attorney right away. They will be able to advise you of the best options for your particular situation. Visit the Dilantin Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) Class Action Lawsuit Investigation page and receive a free consultation from a Dilantin Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) lawsuit lawyer.
Updated February 4th, 2013
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