Zarontin Linked to Stevens Johnson Syndrome & Other Side Effects
By Andrea Gressman
Zarontin is the brand name that ethosuximide is sold as in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, as well as other countries around the world. The drug is used as a treatment option for generalized absence seizures and first became available around 1960. However, there have been certain side effects linked to Zarontin and one of the most serious is Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS).
What is Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS)?
Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare condition that has very serious consequences for the victim. It most frequently occurs as an allergic reaction to certain medications, such as Zarontin. It can affect the young and old alike and can occur regardless of whether it is a new prescription or the patient has been taking the drug for a long period of time.
When a person develops Stevens Johnson Syndrome they often have to be treated in the burn unit of a hospital as the skin rash that develops resembles that of a third-degree burn. When SJS progresses it can sometimes turn into toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which is the more severe form of SJS. There have been a number of fatalities that have occurred from both conditions.
It is important to note that if the Zarontin patient begins to develop a rash they need to contact their medical care provider immediately. This also includes sores in the mouth and a fever, among other symptoms.
Additional Zarontin Side Effects
It has also been noted that behavioral changes can occur when it comes to the use of Zarontin. Some of the side effect warnings to watch for include the following:
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Signs of psychosis
Young adults and adolescents have also made claims that Zarontin has caused them to experience emotional issues as well as psychiatric diseases. This is known to occur more frequently in cases where a high dosage is given. An advisory panel was created on July 10, 2008 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in order to review data from different studies on Zarontin side effects. These studies revealed a link between antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
It has also been reported that those who have kidney or liver disease should use Zarontin with a high rate of caution. It is advised that any physician that plans on prescribing Zarontin should provide kidney and liver function testing.
It is important for those taking Zarontin to carefully watch for any symptoms of these side effects and to contact their physician as soon as possible if any are noted. Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and many other side effects linked to Zarontin can be life-threatening.
If you, a friend or family member has developed Stevens Johnson Syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis after taking Zarontin or another medication it is important that you speak with an experienced Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawsuit attorney right away. Visit the Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) & Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Class Action Lawsuit Investigation page and submit your information so an experienced SJS lawsuit lawyer can provide you with a free legal review.
Updated February 5th, 2013
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