Unusual Drug Reaction

Some drugs can trigger a rare skin disease called Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). Symptoms include red blotches, welts and pimple-like bumps either in one area of the body or all over. Eyelids may swell and eyes may turn red. The patient can have persistent fever or flu-like symptoms. SJS usually appears within one week of starting a new medication. The most common medications that cause SJS include drugs containing sulfa, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, anticonvulsants and drugs to treat gout. SJS is treated with antibiotics and steroids' In rare instances, it can result in blindness or death. There are roughly 600 to 2,000 cases of SJS annually.