There are few cases where Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a factor in peoples’ lives, but there are cases where it becomes a household term. SJS is a disease, which originates usually from anti-epilepsy medications and minor pain relievers, though the major cause is usually anti-epilepsy or bipolar disorder medications such as Lamictal or Lamotrigine.

SJS is most feared for its crippling and at times terrifying side effects, which entail the peeling and shedding of skin, which is undoubtedly painful to an unimaginable extent. These symptoms have little warning, as the only precursor to its onset is flu-like symptoms as early as one week before SJS. These fears are made worse by the fact that there are little to no methods of predicting, recognizing, or curing this affliction other than ceasing use of the medication which caused the reaction.

Although there is some relief in sight, it should be noted that Stevens-Johnson syndrome is solely caused by medications rather than being something that can be passed as a contagion. There are some health factors which put certain individuals at higher risk than others which include:

• Viral Infections – Your risk for contracting SJS is heightened if you have recently had a viral infection around the same time period in which you take certain medications suspect for giving SJS to its patients.
• Weakened Immune System – If you have a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, chemo, or have been affected adversely by an organ transplant, your risk is higher than most.
• SJS History – If a family member immediately related to you has had SJS or toxic epidermal nercolysis, you are at higher risk for SJS as well.
• Genetics – If a gene called HLA-B 1502 exists in your genetic code, you have an increased risk of developing SJS. Also, Chinese, Southeast Asian and Indian patients have an increased risk to carry this gene.

Although these risk factors may seem rare and difficult to combine, it is advised by Wormington & Bollinger to exercise caution when being prescribed anti-convulsant, bipolar medication, or medication such as Lamictal. If you have suffered from any of the above listed conditions, have any combination of pre-existing conditions and have simultaneously been prescribed Lamictal, Wormington & Bollinger urges you to exercise caution when taking your prescription drug. If you or a family member has already undergone medication through Lamictal and have been experiencing flu-like symptoms, pay extra attention to your symptoms and immediately seek hospitalization if SJS symptoms arise. Then contact the team of attorneys at LamictalLawyer.com to seek the compensation that you are owed.