Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)

Stevens-Johnson syndrome, or SJS, is a rare, severe reaction of the skin and mucous membranes, most often triggered by a medication. It often begins with flu-like symptoms, then a painful red or purplish rash spreads and blisters, and the top layer of skin dies and sheds. The mouth, eyes, and genitals are often affected. Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is the more severe form, involving a larger area of skin. Both are medical emergencies usually treated in a burn or intensive care unit, and survivors can have lasting eye damage and scarring.

Many drugs have been linked to SJS, including certain anticonvulsants, antibiotics such as sulfonamides, allopurinol, and some pain relievers. Even common over-the-counter medicines are on the list. On August 1, 2013, the FDA issued a Drug Safety Communication warning that acetaminophen has been associated with a risk of rare but serious skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. The FDA later recommended warning language for over-the-counter acetaminophen labels.

SJS lawsuits are usually failure-to-warn claims: the patient alleges the drug label did not adequately warn about the reaction or tell patients to stop the drug at the first sign of a rash. Cases have been brought against makers of both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. The key evidence is the prescription or purchase record, the timing of the first symptoms, and hospital records confirming the diagnosis.

Anyone who develops a spreading rash, blisters, or mouth sores after starting a new medicine should seek emergency care immediately. See our guides on class actions versus mass torts and how to sue a company.