According to an FDA study, some epileptic patients of Asian descent who use dilantin are at a greater risk of developing SJS or TEN. SJS, or Steven-Johnson Syndrome, and TEN, or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, are both serious and life threatening skin conditions that have been linked to dilantin, a popular anti-seizure medication.
If someone you know is suffering from Stevens Johnson Syndrome or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, read our 10 Tips
While all dilantin users are at an increased risk for these serious side effects, the FDA report indicates that Asians with a certain gene may be at an even greater risk for serious debilitating and deadly dilantin side effects. This gene, known as the HLA-B*1502 allele, is most prevalent in people of Asian ancestry. Up to 15 percent of all people from China, Thailand, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia, and the Philippines carry this gene.
A blood test or genetics test can be performed to determine the presence of this gene in the body.
The FDA report indicates that patients with this specific gene are at a greater risk of SJS and TEN from use of dilantin, Phenytek, generic phenytoin, Cerebyx, and generic fosphenytoin.
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a condition in which the skin burns from the inside out. This condition can cause severe rashes and blisters to develop in or near the mouth, nose, eyes, ears, and genitals. When these lesions cover more than 30 percent of the body, this condition is then called Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis.
These diseases are extremely painful and debilitating, often requiring extensive medical treatment in a burn clinic or ICU.
They can lead to:
- blindness
- internal organ damage
- extensive tissue damage
- and substantial scarring.
Worse still, 5 to 15 percent of patients who develop one of these conditions will die from it.
Previous studies found that Asian individuals with this gene were at greater risk of SJS and TEN with use of cabamazepine. As a result, many doctors switched their patients to dilantin and similar alternatives, which, unfortunately, carry the same risks. Now the FDA is urging these doctors to screen for this gene in their patient population and avoid using any of the aforementioned medications in patients that test positive for the HLA-B*1502 gene.
Any patient who is concerned about having this gene should speak with their doctor about a test that can screen them for this gene. It is also important to understand that anyone taking dilantin is at an increased risk of serious side effects such as Stevens Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis.
If you or a loved one is taking dilantin and develop any new skin conditions, such as sores, red spots or rashes, it is important to seek medical attention immediately, and you may contact our attorney for a no cost consultation regarding the legal rights of the victim. Call us today at (800) 641-0098