Supreme Court Decision Could Affect Generic Lamictal SJS Victims
By Jessica Tyner
Lamictal is prescribed to aid in epileptic seizures and mood episodes, and is given to children as young as two years old. Unfortunately, Lamictal and anti-epileptic medications like it is also linked to Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) – a potentially fatal skin disease that is incredibly painful and long-lasting. While SJS can happen to anyone, it usually occurs in older adults.
SJS has initial symptoms that are often disguised as a simple cold or flu such as a headache, dizziness, cough or fever. There have been a number of successful Lamictal injury lawsuits, but the Supreme Court is reconsidering verdicts of generic brands. The question at hand is whether Lamictal’s generic version should be held to the same standards. For victims who suffered Stevens Johnson Syndrome while taking Lamictal (and not a generic version), their case will remain unaffected. However, SJS victims who took a generic brand may not be able to hold the drug maker liable.
Lamictal SJS Symptoms
The symptoms of Lamictal Stevens Johnson Syndrome can vary drastically, but may include a red rash spanning the torso and face. This is often the first big red flag. Blisters often follow, especially around the mouth, eyes and groin. Sometimes, skin can peel off in large sections and the hair and nails may follow. Victims of SJS often only seek help when blisters or skin peeling begins, but SJS may have already settled in at this point.
Death from Lamictal SJS can happen when the infection enters the body via one of the many open wounds. Technically, the lethal threat is by toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). While this isn’t always the case, a sign of TEN is when the body looks like it’s been burned, but it can also appear this way simply because of the blistering and peeling. If you’ve taken Lamictal and developed a rash, it’s wise to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
What about the Generic Lamictal SJS Victims?
Some victims of SJS who have survived have received appropriate compensation, such as Karen Bartlett. She took a generic drug in 2004 and developed SJS shortly thereafter. The disease was so severe that she’s now legally blind and lost 60 percent of her skin. She was awarded $21 million, but the Supreme Court is now reconsidering that decision since she took a generic drug.
Bartlett is just one example of the many SJS sufferers — and not all victims were treating epilepsy or mood disorders. For example, Bartlett took a generic drug to treat the pain of a sore shoulder. Another victim, the daughter of Alicia E. Maya, was awarded $10 million for her SJS nightmare. She was also prescribed a generic drug and the Supreme Court is looking twice at this verdict, too.
Was Lamictal Part of Your Regimen?
While SJS is still a relatively rare allergic reaction, it’s not rare enough. Victims say that the warning label for Lamictal does not adequately warn of the SJS risks. If you’ve taken Lamictal and experienced negative side effects, you may have the right to file a Lamictal injury lawsuit.
Find out more information at the Lamictal Stevens Johnson Syndrome Class Action Lawsuit Investigation and discover if you qualify by filling out the short form there. A compassionate SJS attorney is available to offer you a complimentary Lamictal claim review. If you or a loved one suffered because the Lamictal manufacturer failed to warn you about the risks, you may deserve compensation.
Updated April 24th, 2013
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