Dilantin Use Linked to Stevens Johnson Syndrome, TEN

Dilantin SJS and TEN Symptoms

Stevens Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are potentially fatal skin diseases that are usually related to an adverse reaction to a drug. These diseases are painful and require significant medical care.

Early signs of SJS and TEN can start with flu-like symptoms such as aches, coughing, headaches and fever. It will manifest as a red rash on the face or across the body, and can continue to spread to other parts of the body. These conditions often involve the development of blisters around the eyes, mouth and genitals. SJS and TEN patients often resemble burn patients. In fact, they are frequently treated in burn centers. When someone has SJS or TEN, the most common cause of death is from infection that enters into the exposed areas.

In one study of U.S. burn centers, more than 20 percent of cases of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis were believed to have been caused by Dilantin. In these cases, nearly 25 percent of these adverse drug reactions were fatal.

Number of Dilantin Lawsuits Continues to Rise

Numerous Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawsuits have been filed against Pfizer, alleging that the drug manufacturer knew of the potentially deadly risks associated with Dilantin but failed to warn of the drug’s dangers. So far, there have been more than 1,000 Dilantin lawsuits filed. The plaintiffs in these cases allege that Pfizer failed to provide adequate warning about the potentially fatal health risks posed by Dilantin. More than 130 deaths may have been caused by Dilantin-induced Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

In 2010, Pfizer agreed to pay more than $3.5 million to settle a Dilantin lawsuit that was filed after a 9-year-old girl developed SJS and died. The girl, Jesse Nichols Jacobson, was prescribed Dilantin after she underwent surgery for a brain tumor. She developed SJS and died from an infection. Her parents filed the lawsuit against Pfizer, claiming that the drugs were unreasonably dangerous. They allege that the Dilantin label should have warned patients to discontinue use of the drug if they develop a rash.

Speak with a Dilantin Lawyer

If you have suffered SJS or TEN after taking Dilantin, visit the Dilantin Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) Class Action Lawsuit Investigation for more information about your legal rights. You could receive compensation to pay for your expensive medical bills, time off work and emotional distress that you suffered. If someone that you love died from Dilantin SJS or TEN, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If you submit information about the Dilantin injuries on the investigation page, an attorney will conduct a free case evaluation to determine whether you qualify to join a Dilantin lawsuit.