What’s the Problem?
Motrin contains ibuprofen, which belongs to a class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that are designed to relieve pain and swelling without the dangerous side effects of steroids or narcotics. Ibuprofen works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, substances the body releases in response to injury that cause pain and swelling (inflammation). However, despite its considerable effectiveness in this capacity, ibuprofen has recently been linked to a serious skin reaction known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
What is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (also known as Leyll’s Syndrome, erythema multiforme and, in its most severe form, toxic epidermal necrolysis) is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that typically begins with flu-like symptoms followed by a painful purple or red rash. The rash then blisters and spreads, and the top layer of skin subsequently dies and sheds.
SJS Complications
SJS often requires hospitalization, and a full recovery can take weeks or even months. Complications may include:
- Permanent skin damage
- Damage to internal organs
- Eye inflammation
- Blood and skin infections
- Abnormal nail growth
- Hair loss
- Permanent scarring
Massachusetts Teen Awarded $63M in Motrin SJS Lawsuit
In February 2013, Johnson & Johnson was ordered to pay a teenager who developed toxic epidermal necrolysis after taking Children’s Motrin $63 million in damages. Samantha Reckis was just 7-years-old when she was diagnosed with the condition, which caused her severe respiratory damage, blindness and the loss of 90% of her skin. The complaint accused J&J of failing to adequately warn that Motrin could cause life-threatening allergic reactions.
What Other Drugs Cause SJS?
In addition to Motrin, other medications that may cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome include:
- Advil
- Aleve
- Cipro
- Dilantin
- Lamictal/Lamictal XR
- Levaquin
- Topamax
- Zithromax (Z-Pak)
- Anticonvulsant medications including carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, valproic and lamotrigine
- Any other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), fluoroquinolones or medications that contain ibuprofen
Class Action Lawsuit Information
Class action lawsuits distribute any settlement or jury awards for all class members equally. Even if your injuries are significantly greater than other members you will still receive an equal allotment of the awarded amount. For this reason, our lawyers are only filing individual lawsuits for people who developed Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrosis after taking Motrin. At Schmidt & Clark, LLP we understand that our clients are suffering emotionally and economically due to loss of wages and/or high medical bills and we plan to maximize each client’s recovery by filing individual Motrin lawsuits on their behalf.
Do I Have a Motrin Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawsuit?
The Class Action Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Motrin lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new Stevens-Johnson syndrome cases in all 50 states.
Free Case Evaluation: Again, if you developed SJS after taking Motrin, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a lawsuit and we can help.