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If you or a loved one experienced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) following Remicade use, you may be entitled to pursue compensation. At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to dangerous drug reactions. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Table Of Contents
- Remicade Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit Overview
- Latest Remicade Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit Updates
- FDA Reports and Statistics
- What is Remicade?
- What’s the Problem?
- Remicade Injuries & Side Effects
- What is SJS/TEN?
- Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Symptoms
- SJS/TEN Treatment
- Do You Qualify for a Remicade Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit?
- Statute of Limitations for Remicade Lawsuits
- FAQs
- Get a Free Remicade SJS Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Remicade Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit Overview
Remicade Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawsuits allege that the manufacturer failed to provide adequate warnings about the risk of severe skin reactions. These lawsuits claim Janssen CarePath knew or should have known about the potential for Remicade to cause SJS and TEN.
The US Food & Dtug Administration (FDA) has received numerous adverse event reports linking TNF blocker drugs like Remicade to serious complications, including potentially fatal skin reactions and infections.
Latest Remicade Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit Updates
Remicade (infliximab) continues to be the subject of legal scrutiny regarding its association with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and other serious side effects. Current lawsuit data shows multiple pending cases against Janssen CarePath, with patients seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and ongoing care requirements related to SJS/TEN complications.
FDA Reports and Statistics
The FDA has issued multiple safety communications regarding Remicade. In 2008, the agency released an alert to healthcare providers about the risk of fungal infections associated with Remicade use [1]. Additional black box warnings were added in 2009 regarding the increased risk of cancer, particularly lymphoma in children and young adults [2].
According to adverse event reporting databases, skin reactions including SJS and TEN continue to be reported in patients taking Remicade.
What is Remicade?
Remicade (infliximab) is a prescription tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker drug that is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and severe or disabling plaque psoriasis in adults. The drug works by reducing the effects of a substance in the body that can cause inflammation. Remicade is manufactured and marketed by Janssen CarePath and was first approved by the FDA on August 24, 1998.
What’s the Problem?
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are severe dermatologic conditions that are caused by an adverse reaction to medications like Remicade. Although it is still unclear exactly how drug interactions lead to SJS/TEN, one theory holds that altered drug metabolism in some patients triggers a T-cell–mediated cytotoxic reaction to drug antigens in keratinocytes.
Remicade Injuries & Side Effects
Remicade has been associated with several serious adverse effects, including severe skin reactions:
- Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: Potentially life-threatening skin reactions
- Increased Cancer Risk: Particularly lymphoma in children and young adults
- Serious Infections: Including fungal, bacterial, and viral infections
- Liver Injury: Hepatotoxicity and liver failure
- Cardiovascular Effects: Heart failure and other cardiac complications
Remicade and Cancer
In 2004, a warning letter was sent to healthcare professionals stating that Remicade had been linked to cases of lymphoma in patients who had taken the medication. A study published in the May 2006 issue of JAMA concluded that Remicade side effects could triple the risk of cancer.
The Food and Drug Administration FDA June 2008 released a statement about an ongoing safety review involving Remicade and its potential link to the development of lymphoma and other cancers in children and young adults. A black box cancer warning was added to the labeling of Remicade in August 2009.
Remicade Fungal Infections
According to the FDA, many patients who took TNF blockers like Remicade subsequently developed fungal infections, such as histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, and coccidioidomycosis. In several of these cases, the infections resulted in the death of the patient.
In Sept. 2008, FDA issued an alert to healthcare providers to provide new information about the risk of fungal infections associated with Remicade. At the time, the agency also indicated that additional information would be added to the Remicade black box warning to ensure that doctors and consumers were aware of the fungal infection risk. Unfortunately, many cases of Remicade fungal infections go undiagnosed, since the symptoms are similar to the flu.
What is SJS/TEN?
In its early stages, the symptoms of SJS are typically flu-like, including fever, sore throat, fatigue, and eye irritation. As the condition progresses, a red or purplish rash often appears on the skin and begins to spread and blister. This rash causes the outermost layer of skin to die and shed from the body, usually just a matter of days after the rash appears.
TEN is a more advanced, severe, and life-threatening form of Stevens-Johnson syndrome. When more than 30% of the total body surface area is covered in blisters or significant rash, the disease is considered TEN. This disease is severe and life-threatening, carrying a mortality rate of 30%-80%.
Related Article: Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome 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.
SJS/TEN Treatment
Identification and early withdrawal of the offending medication is the most important action in caring for patients with SJS or TEN. Many cases of SJS/TEN require supportive care in a burn intensive care unit, with a focus on assessment and management of the airway, renal function, fluid and electrolyte balance, nutrition, skin and ocular surfaces, pain control, and prevention of infection.
Do You Qualify for a Remicade Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Remicade Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawsuit if:
- You were prescribed and used Remicade
- You developed Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) following Remicade use
- Your condition required medical treatment or hospitalization
- You can provide medical documentation linking your SJS/TEN to Remicade use
Evidence Required for a Remicade SJS Lawsuit
To support your Remicade SJS lawsuit, you’ll need:
- Medical records documenting your SJS or TEN diagnosis
- Proof of Remicade use (prescriptions, medical records, receipts)
- Documentation of the timeline between Remicade use and symptom onset
- Records of all medical treatments received for SJS/TEN
Damages You Can Recover
Potential compensation in a Remicade SJS lawsuit may include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disfigurement and scarring
- Loss of quality of life
Statute of Limitations for Remicade Lawsuits
The time limit to file a Remicade lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-3 years from the date of injury or from when you discovered the connection between Remicade and your condition. It’s critical to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable statute of limitations.
FAQs
Consult a medical professional to assess your symptoms and review your medical history. Documenting the timeline of Remicade use and the onset of SJS symptoms can help establish a connection between the drug and your condition.
2. What evidence is needed to support a Remicade SJS lawsuit?
Evidence may include medical records showing your SJS diagnosis, proof of Remicade use (prescriptions, receipts), expert testimony linking your condition to the drug, and any communication with your healthcare provider regarding side effects.
3. Can I file a lawsuit if I developed SJS from using Remicade?
Yes, individuals who developed SJS from using Remicade can file lawsuits to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Consulting with an attorney experienced in pharmaceutical litigation is crucial.
4. How long do I have to file a Remicade lawsuit?
The statute of limitations varies by state but typically ranges from 1-3 years from either the date of injury or the date you discovered the connection between Remicade and your condition.
What is the average settlement for a Remicade SJS lawsuit?
Settlement amounts vary based on factors including severity of injuries, medical expenses, and impact on quality of life. SJS/TEN cases often result in significant settlements due to the serious nature of these conditions.
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- Topamax Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit
See all related dangerous drug lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get a Free Remicade SJS Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Time is limited to pursue legal action for Remicade-related Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Most states only allow 1-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, so it’s critical to act quickly.
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 Remicade Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently investigating potential settlements in all 50 states.
Our firm offers:
- Free, confidential consultations
- No upfront costs or fees
- Payment only if we win your case
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