Dilantin Linked to Life-Threatening Skin Conditions and Other Serious Side Effects
Consumers, take note: the popular antiepileptic seizure medication Dilantin may put you at an increased risk for serious skin conditions, including Stevens Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis. If you experience any skin abnormalities while on Dilantin it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
You may also have a legal claim if you have suffered significant side effects from the prescription antiepileptic drug Dilantin. Contact the experienced Florida pharmaceutical litigation lawyers at Gordon & Doner via our online contact form or at 1-800-659-1159 for a free consultation.
Uses of Dilantin
Dilantin is used to treat grand mal and temporal lobe seizures associated with epilepsy and to prevent seizures that may occur after neurosurgery. Grand mal seizures are characterized by a sudden loss of consciousness and generalized convulsions. Temporal lobe seizures stem from disease in the cortex of the temporal lobe of the brain, affecting smell, taste, sight, hearing, memory and movement. Dilantin works by slowing down impulses in the brain.
A Link to Serious Side Effects?
In late 2008, the FDA began investigating data regarding a potential increased risk of serious skin reactions, including Stevens Johnson syndrome, following the use of Dilantin.Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) may start as flu-like symptoms and quickly spread to a painful and blistery red or purple rash. You should receive emergency medical attention if you experience facial swelling, tongue swelling, a rash, painful skin, hives, blisters or shedding of your skin. SJS can quickly become life-threatening and must be treated immediately.
The FDA also said it was investigating an increased risk of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) from Dilantin use.Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis is a life-threatening dermatological condition. TEN sufferers experience the top layer of skin detaching from their bodies. Some experts believe that TEN is a more severe form of SJS. Many of the symptoms are the same as SJS, with body cavities such as the eyes and mouth being most severely affected. The death rate from TEN is high – at about 30-40% of TEN patients. Due to the serious nature of this condition, patients are treated in burn units or intensive care units.
Asians who carry a gene identified as HLA-B.1502 have the greatest risk of developing these serious conditions. It is estimated that between 10-15% of people from Thailand, China, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines have this gene and that a smaller percentage of South Asians, including Indians, carry this gene. However, all Dilantin patients should be familiar with the symptoms of Stevens Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis.
Other Serious Dilantin Side Effects
In addition to the serious skin conditions listed above, Dilantin users should be aware of other potentially serious side effects. Dilantin has been linked to an increase in blood sugars that can be dangerous for diabetics and other patients with blood sugar disorders. Dilantin can also interfere with the body’s metabolism of Vitamin D. As a result, Dilantin users may have abnormally soft bones. A further risk which has recently been added to Dilantin labeling by the FDA is the potential for suicidal thoughts and behavior. Dilantin users who are thinking of harming themselves should seek immediate medical attention.
Contact a Lawyer if You’ve Been Harmed by Dilantin
The law firm of Gordon & Doner believes that drug manufacturers should be held accountable for the injuries and fatalities caused by their products. Our experienced lawyers are compassionate to the needs of patients injured by pharmaceutical drugs and we will be zealous advocates for your rights. If you have a case against a pharmaceutical company, we can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages, including your pain and suffering. For more information or to schedule a free case evaluation, contact the lawyers of Gordon & Doner online today or at 1-800-659-1159.
