Prescribing Zithromax for the Flu May Expose Patients to Stevens Johnson Syndrome
By John Curran
In New Jersey, a man developed a number of flu-like symptoms including fever, congestion and general dizziness and nausea. In spite of the likely diagnosis of influenza, doctors decided to hedge their bets and prescribed Tamiflu and a Zithromax, a drug linked to Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) side effects. The reason? A lack of tests.
Some people present differently when it comes to influenza. Doctors hope for a varied set of symptoms, including nasal congestion and stomach problems. A diffuse set of symptoms points to viral infections. However, the lack of tests available due to the excessive number of cases means that doctors cannot be positive. They try to treat any potential bacterial infections with antibiotics such as Zithromax. As a result, the inflammatory condition Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a real risk.
This site has previously covered the problems with prescribing powerful antibiotics for viral infections. The most common drug for influenza is Tamiflu, but it is only effective within the first two days that a patient experiences symptoms. As a result, it can be unclear what to do in the interim, even to the point of risking SJS or the more dangerous toxic epidermal necrolysis where entire sections of skin dying off. Doctors are trying not to overprescribe, but the lack of testing capability makes that difficult.
Zithromax Stevens Johnson Syndrome side effects are just one risk. Due to the fluctuating temperatures in many parts of the United States, bacterial infections are still an issue. Beyond Z-Pak and other azithromycin-based drugs, even aspirin and amoxicillin have been linked to the two inflammatory conditions, with patients in rare cases developing toxic epidermal necrolysis. Since they start off resembling small rashes on the extremities, they can be misdiagnosed.
People who are worried about flu-like symptoms should base their decisions on what they and their doctor do know. Outside of a compromised immune system, choosing fewer courses of treatment may make more sense so as to avoid Stevens Johnson Syndrome. Flu symptoms may take days to get rid of, but SJS can take years in terms of recovery.
Patients who were unaware of these risks do have legal options available to them. Learn more at the Zithromax Z-Pak Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. A free legal consultation to establish one’s eligibility is a simple click away. A remedy such as a jury award or settlement could help with lost wages or treatment costs, so get started today.
Updated January 25th, 2013
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