Dilantin is associated with a severe allergic skin rash called Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). The FDA warns that some Asians and African-Americans have a gene that increases their risk of this life-threatening side effect.
What You Can Do & How We Can Help
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Dilantin induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with SJS, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Dilantin Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
Dilantin and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
Dilantin (phenytoin) is an anti-epileptic medication made by Pfizer that is used to prevent seizures. It is a common cause of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), though the risk is low, according to a recent analysis of drug-induced SJS.
Death Linked to Dilantin SJS/TEN
In one case report from 2014, a 45 year-old woman developed a rash over 80% of her body after taking Dilantin for one month to prevent seizures. She was diagnosed with SJS and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) and died after 11 days in the hospital.
Dilantin Skin Rash — Allergic Reaction
According to the Prescribing Information for Dilantin, symptoms usually appear within the first 28 days, but it can take longer. The rash may be accompanied by a fever. The rash resembles measles or scarlet fever.
Higher Risk for Some Asians and African-Americans
Before prescribing Dilantin, your doctor may recommend a blood test to check for a genetic risk-factor for SJS. The gene is present in around 10% of Asian Americans. Around 0.4% of African-Americans and Alaskan Natives also have the gene. It is uncommon for Caucasians, Hispanics, and mainland Native Americans.
FDA Warning for Dilantin SJS Risk
The FDA issued a Safety Warning about the risk of SJS from Dilantin in November 2008, after a study strongly associated the side effect in people with Chinese ancestry.
The gene is called “HLA-B*1502” and it is found in 10-15% of people from China, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, and Taiwan. Around 2-4% of South Asians and people from India have the gene. It is present in less than 1% of people from Japan or Korea.
What is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious side effect of many medications. SJS occurs when an allergic reaction causes a painful skin rash that can spread all over the body and involve the mucous membranes (eyes, nose, throat, mouth, genitals, intestines, etc.). If the rash covers over 30% of the body, SJS is called Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). It is also sometimes diagnosed as erythema multiforme or Lyell’s syndrome.
Warning Signs of SJS
SJS usually begins with a flu-like illness, fever, nausea, and itchy skin. The rash can begin anywhere on the body or face. It is painful, red or purplish, and accompanied by blisters. The rash spreads within hours. After a few days, the top layer of skin dies and peels off.
Complications of SJS and TEN
The most serious complication of SJS is death, but only around 5% of people die. The risk of death increases to 30% for people with TEN. While most people survive, permanent complications are common. SJS can spread to the mucous membranes in the eyes, resulting in scarring, vision loss, or blindness. It can also cause severe disfigurement. When deaths occur, they are usually due to an infection that spreads to the bloodstream and causes sepsis or organ failure.
Symptoms of SJS
- Skin rash that spreads quickly
- Rash is raised, red or purple, and painful
- Blisters of varying sizes
- Flu-like symptoms (nausea, fatigue, etc.)
- Fever
- Itchy skin
- Bloodshot eyes
- Sore mouth and throat
- Loss of vision or blindness
Do I have a Dilantin Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Dilantin induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with SJS, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Dilantin Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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