Dilantin Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit

What is Dilantin?

Dilantin is an anticonvulsant/antiepileptic drug that is used to prevent and control seizures. The medication works by reducing the spread of seizure activity in the brain. Dilantin is manufactured and marketed by Pfizer Inc. and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1996.

What’s the Problem?

The FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), World Health Organization (WHO), and Health Canada Adverse Event Database have all confirmed reports of serious skin reactions in patients who took products containing phenytoin, the active ingredient in Dilantin.

Plaintiffs in Dilantin SJS Lawsuits allege that Pfizer and generic drug manufacturers were aware of the drug’s dangers yet failed to inform the public and medical communities of these risks.

What is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?

SJS is a severe drug-induced allergic reaction that manifests as a skin disease that causes rashes, skin peeling, sores on the mucous membranes, and death. Patients with the condition typically develop blistering of mucous membranes, typically in the mouth, eyes, and genitals.

Related Article: Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit Update

SJS Symptoms

In most cases, Stevens-Johnson syndrome begins with symptoms including fever, headache, cough, and body aches which last from 1 to 14 days. Then a flat red rash breaks out on the face and body, which spreads out in an irregular pattern. The areas of rash enlarge and spread, often forming blisters.

The skin of the blisters will then become very loose and easy to rub off. The damage to the lining of the mouth will make eating difficult. Closing the mouth may be painful, so the patient may drool.

A person’s eyes may swell and become so filled with pus that they seal shut. The corneas may also become scarred.

The urethra may also be affected by SJS, making urination difficult and painful. In some cases, the mucous membranes of the digestive and respiratory tracts are involved, causing diarrhea and difficulty breathing.

Dilantin SJS FDA Warning

In 2008, the FDA warned that consumers who used Dilantin may be at risk of developing Stevens-Johnson syndrome or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis.

“Phenytoin should be discontinued if a skin rash appears (see WARNINGS section regarding drug discontinuation),” the agency said. “If the rash is exfoliative, purpuric, or bullous or if lupus erythematosus, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, or toxic epidermal necrolysis is suspected, use of this drug should not be resumed and alternative therapy should be considered.”

Dilantin SJS Lawsuit Filed in Illinois

In January 2011, a lawsuit was filed against Pfizer in Illinois St. Clair County Circuit Court by 2 Plaintiffs who developed SJS after taking Dilantin, as well as the family of another person who died from the condition.

According to the lawsuit, Pfizer failed to adequately warn consumers about the risk of Dilantin’s side effects. Additionally, the plaintiffs allege that Pfizer told Health Canada that Dilantin carries an increased risk of adverse skin reactions when seeking approval of the drug Bextra in that country, but did not include warnings on the labeling of Dilantin.

Plaintiffs named in the complaints include Shirley Johnson, Michael Shepherd, and the wife of John Taylor, who died from Stevens-Johnson Syndrome on December 31, 2009.

Pfizer Ordered to Pay $3.78 Million in Dilantin Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit

Pfizer in October 2014 agreed to pay a $3.78 million settlement to resolve a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of a 9-year-old girl who died from toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), a more severe form of SJS, caused by Dilantin and Flagyl, an antibiotic used to treat infections.

According to the lawsuit, Jesse Nichols Jacobson was just 9 years old when she developed SJS, which then worsened and advanced to TEN. Jesse allegedly developed the skin reaction just 2 days after taking Dilantin and then allegedly died in June 2004.

The plaintiffs alleged that Pfizer issued drug warnings in Canada and other countries about the increased risk of SJS and TEN with Dilantin for patients of African descent, but failed to issue a similar warning in America. Pfizer has yet to warn U.S. doctors of the alleged Dilantin SJS risk.

Related Articles:

• Aloprim Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Case
• Children’s Motrin Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
• Diflucan Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit

See all related dangerous drug lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. What Types of Compensation Might Be Available in the Dilantin Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit?

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. The amount varies based on injury severity and the impact on your quality of life.

2. How Do I Find a Lawyer for the Dilantin Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit?

Look for lawyers specializing in pharmaceutical litigation or product liability. Seek referrals, check reviews, and consult with attorneys experienced in handling Stevens-Johnson Syndrome cases for personalized legal support.

3. Are There Any Deadlines for Filing a Claim Related to Dilantin and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?

Yes, there are deadlines, known as statutes of limitations. They vary by state but generally require filing within a few years from diagnosis or discovery of the connection to Dilantin.

Get a Free Dilantin Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Dilantin Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently investigating potential settlements in all 50 states.

Again, if you or a loved one was diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) after taking Dilantin, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case review. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit for legal fees and our defective drug lawyers can help with a free case evaluation.