Pfizer’s Zithromax Stevens Johnson Syndrome Warning Too Late, Lawsuits Say
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) told Pfizer last year that it must update its Zithromax label to include the potential side effect risk of Steven Johnson Syndrome (SJS). Zithromax is a popular antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, and has risen in sales due to its minimal dosage requirement of only five days.
The first warning about Zithromax SJS was sent to Pfizer on June 19, 2012, regarding its “1 Day-1 Dose” brochure, stating it did not explain the severity or likelihood of Stevens Johnson Syndrome occurring. The updated warning came too late for many Zithromax users, however, who were diagnosed with Stevens Johnson Syndrome and suffered severe injuries and even death as a result.
Dozens of Zithromax SJS lawsuits have been filed against Pfizer for allegedly downplaying this potential side effect risk. Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a severe and potentially fatal allergic reaction to medications such as Zithromax. Often times Zithromax SJS starts as a simple rash, but if left untreated can develop into a life-threatening condition in which the patient’s skin sloughs off in sheets. If it gets to that point and the patient is still alive, the patient often suffers permanent scarring, organ damage, and vision problems.
What is Stevens Johnson Syndrome?
Steven Johnson Syndrome is an allergic inflammatory skin condition caused by and allergic reaction that is triggered by certain drugs, including antibiotics such as some sulfonamides, tetracycline, amoxicillin, Zithromax, and ampicillin. Medical experts have found that over-the-counter medications may also trigger this reaction as well. A more severe form of this condition is called Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), where up to 90% of the body is covered in skin lesions.
Typically, SJS is diagnosed one to two weeks after the patient is exposed to the triggering medication. The rash will typically progress to the feet and the rest of the body after a couple of days. After that, the rash will eventually turn into blisters and will turn a red or purple color. The skin blisters can cover up to 30% of the body, and can potentially lead to loss of sight, and even be fatal if left untreated. SJS most often occurs in children rather than adults who are exposed.
In many cases, the medications that cause SJS seldom have warning labels or indications about the possibility of this condition occurring, leading to legal battles and for worst case scenario: wrongful death. Additionally, drug companies often underestimate the likelihood of Stevens Johnson Syndrome, as well as the severity of the condition the patients are in. The warning labels will typically warn of a potential allergic reaction in the form of a rash, and that they should seek medical attention.
Many legal and medical experts believe that stronger warnings for Stevens Johnson Syndrome should be implemented.
Obtain Free Legal Help for Zithromax SJS
If you believe that you or a loved one has been the victim of a Zithromax Steven Johnson Syndrome injury, you have legal options. Please visit the Zithromax, Z-Pak, Azithromycin Class Action Lawsuit Investigation . There, you can submit your claim for a free legal review and if it qualifies for legal action, a seasoned Zithromax 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.
Updated July 25th, 2013
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