Along with SJS, other adverse drug reactions include Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Symptoms (TENS) and Lyell's Syndrome. SJS is treated by hospitalization but most importantly, the cause must be determined first. If Dilantin is the cause, the medication must be discontinued immediately. If SJS is drug related, the chances of recovery are greatly increased once the drug is recognized. SJS can be fatal in about 15 percent of sufferers.
Allergic drug reactions are a major cause of death in the United States, causing more than 100,000 deaths among patients each year.
Stevens Johnson Syndrome can begin with a fever, sore throat and headache and over a few days or minutes can turn into skin lesions and blisters.
Stevens Johnson Syndrome is characterized by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, eyes, genital tract and intestinal tract. Ulcers inside the mouth are the most common, irritation to the throat, tongue, gums, and lips. Affected individuals may also have skin lesions, blisters and bleeding in the lips, eyes, mouth, nasal passage and genital areas.
As Stevens Johnson Syndrome evolves, the skin literally sloughs off in sheets. Patients are typically treated in a hospital's burn unit. If the skin lesions become infected, or the patient develops lesions in the lungs, it can cause death.
Possible side effects of Dilantin can include:
- Liver Damage
- Rash
- Hallucinations
- Irregular Heartbeat
- Decreased Blood Pressure
- Increased Blood Sugar
- Birth Defects
Anyone who takes Dilantin may have a risk of developing Stevens Johnson Syndrome. Our Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawyers have helped thousands of clients win millions of dollars from the manufacturers and suppliers of unsafe drugs and products.
San Diego, CA: Tom G. was prescribed Dilantin after he passed out in a Denny's restaurant and his neurologist concluded he had a "seizure potential." Turns out he never did have a seizure; instead he wound up with SJS dilantin, a serious allergic reaction to the drug. [ 
Biloxi, MS: David was prescribed Dilantin because "he was confused and couldn't get his words out," says his wife, Sandra. Dilantin is an epileptic drug that is typically used to control seizures and David's doctor thought he might be experiencing seizures. Instead, David suffered horrific skin problems and died just a few months later from other complications. David's neurologist said he had an allergic reaction to the drug; he likely developed Dilantin Stevens Johnson Syndrome. [ 
Pensacola, FL: Thankfully, Linda's doctor told her to stop taking Dilantin just a few days after she started on the drug, otherwise she may have wound up in the burn unit or intensive care unit for weeks or even months with Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Linda got a rash that started around her mouth and spread to her entire body—she was diagnosed with SJS Dilantin. [ 
