When your child is sick and feverish, you may reach for one of the common fever-reducing drugs such as children’s aspirin or ibuprofen. Unfortunately, in some cases giving these and other drugs to a child may cause a serious and potentially fatal condition called Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) due to an allergic reaction. SJS affects children and young adults.
Some symptoms of Stevens Johnson Syndrome include:
- Flu-like symptoms such as cough, aches, headache, fever and sore throat
- Rash on the face and trunk
- Blisters and lesions on the body, including inflamed mucous membranes
- Hair and nails falling out
The condition can rapidly progress and spread throughout the body, seriously affecting organs. Blindness and/or death can occur in severe cases. Not all cases of SJS arise from drug-related reactions. Some may be brought on by other causes including viral or bacterial infection.
The FDA now requires warnings on the packaging for several children’s medications about the potential for SJS. But meanwhile, many children may have suffered from SJS. When that happens, manufacturers may be subject to a lawsuit.
If your child has suffered drug-related SJS, you may be able to file an individual or class action lawsuit against the manufacturer for medical expenses and pain and suffering. An Oklahoma personal injury attorney who understands the intricacies of mounting a lawsuit against a large pharmaceutical company can examine the facts of your case and advise you on whether and how to proceed. You have a limited amount of time to file a claim so do not hesitate to reach out for legal advice.