New Generic Lamictal & the Signs of Stevens Johnson Syndrome

The generic Lamictal was just released into the market on June 25, 2013. Dr. Reddy’s Labs predicts $300.5 million in sales in the 12-month trial year. Although the drug may be successful, it still carries the risk of serious side effects like Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS).

What is Stevens Johnson Syndrome?

SJS is more common in children under the age of sixteen, with most cases starting between two to six weeks after taking the medication. Those who are diagnosed with Lamictal SJS may find rashes covering between 30% and 50% of their bodies.

SJS is a rare skin allergy reaction caused by certain drugs. These include antibiotics such as sulfonamides, tetracycline, amoxicillin, and ampicillin. Also, some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications and other anticonvulsants like Tegretol and phenobarbital have been implicated in cases of Stevens Johnson Syndrome. Some over-the-counter medications may potentially trigger this reaction as well, and in some cases SJS may possibly be caused by a reaction to an infection.

What are the signs of Stevens Johnson Syndrome?

There are many signs of Stevens Johnson Syndrome, but there are also different stages to look out for if the patient starts exhibiting abnormal body behavior. Patients are encouraged to seek medical care as soon as possible if they feel concern about SJS.

The first signs of Stevens Johnson Syndrome are:

• Facial swelling
• Tongue swelling
• Hives
• Skin pain
• A red or purple skin rash that spreads within hours to days
• Blisters on your skin and mucous membranes, especially in your mouth, nose and eyes
• Shedding (sloughing) of your skin

Several days before the SJS rash develops, however, some patients may experience some of the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Burning eyes

Several days after SJS sets in, patients are likely to experience more severe symptoms that may be life-threatening, including the following:

• Unexplained widespread skin pain
• Facial swelling
• Blisters on your skin and mucous membranes
• Hives
• Tongue swelling
• A red or purple skin rash that spreads
• Shedding of your skin

Lamictal and Stevens Johnson Syndrome

Some medical studies have shown evidence that other medications taken in combination with Lamictal may possibly be responsible for Steven Johnson Syndrome’s offset. These other medications include but are not limited to:

• Hormonal birth control (pills, patches),
• Estrogens
• Other anticonvulsant medications (such as carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, valproic acid)
• Rifampin

In the United States, there are about 300 new diagnoses of Stevens Johnson Syndrome each year. Many of these victims and their families pursue legal action against the drug makers for failing to warn them how serious this potential side effect may be. New SJS lawsuits are filed against GlaxoSmithKline and other drug maker every year.

If you believe that you or a loved one has been the victim of a Lamictal Stevens Johnson Syndrome reaction, you have legal options. Please visit the Stevens Johnson SJS, Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis TEN Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. There, you can submit your claim for a free legal review and if it qualifies for legal action, a seasoned Lamictal lawyer will contact you for a free, no-obligation consultation. You will be guided through the litigation process at no out-of-pocket expenses or hidden fees. The SJS attorneys working this investigation do not get paid until you do.