Neurontin Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit

[toc]

What is Neurontin?

Neurontin is a prescription medication that is used to help manage certain epileptic seizures, as well as to relieve pain for certain conditions, such as shingles. The drug works by calming nerve activity to reduce seizure intensity or occurrence. Neurontin is manufactured and marketed by Pfizer and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 12, 2000.

What's the Problem?

Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) is an acute life-threatening mucocutaneous reaction, characterized by extensive necrosis and detachment of the epidermis from the skin, which is typically caused by a reaction to certain drugs. Medications linked to SJS include anti-epileptic drugs like Neurontin, Allopurinol,
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and antibiotics.

SJS Symptoms

• Flu-like symptoms
• High temperature
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Joint pain
• Blister
• Sores
• Rash that usually starts on the upper body before quickly spreading to the face, arms, legs and other areas of the body, such as the genitals.

Antiepileptic Drugs and SJS: Case Study

A February 2017 study published in the Journal of Basic and Clinical Pharmacy [2.] identified 9 cases of antiepileptic drug-induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

To manage the patient's symptoms, clinicians withdrew the offending medication in 8 cases, and in 1 case, the patient was shifted to valproate and symptomatic treatment.

The researchers concluded that over 90% of SJS occurs within the first 2 months of antiepileptic drug use. Commonly, some of the medications in this category have a high propensity to cause SJS, and also, these kinds of reactions are independent of the dose or the drug and are idiosyncratic.

"Our findings of nine cases of AED-induced SJS draw attention to the need for future studies," the study's authors said. "Ultimately, studies will lead to improved personalization of therapy and also to the development of safer drugs."

Related Article: Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit Update

Neurontin-Induced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome: Study

A December 2007 study conducted by the Korean Academy of Asthma, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology (KAAACI) [1.] looked at the case of a 68-year-old woman who developed whole-body mucosal erosions with widespread erythematous maculopapular skin rashes after taking Neurontin. Upon presentation to the physician, Neurontin was discontinued and the patient was treated with systemic steroids, and her symptoms and lab findings gradually improved.

What is Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN)?

Toxic epidermal necrolysis is a more severe form of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which causes peeling and blistering skin over much of the body, including the mouth, eyes, and genitals. Both SJS and TEN are usually caused by an adverse reaction to a medication. About 25% of people who develop TEN eventually die from complications of the disease.

SJS/TEN Treatment

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a medical emergency that typically requires the patient to be hospitalized. Treatment focuses on removing the cause, caring for wounds, controlling pain, and minimizing complications as the patient's skin regrows. It can take weeks or even months to fully recover.

Related Articles:

• Naprosyn Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit Attorney
• Lamictal Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Litigation
• Flagyl Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

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

Get a Free Neurontin 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 Neurontin 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 Neurontin, 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.