Beasley, Allen, Crow, Methvin, Portis & Miles, P.C.

Famotidine, the heartburn drug most known by the brand name Pepcid, is yet another drug that has been linked to a deadly skin reaction known as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), the most serious version of Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS). Famotidine is available by both prescription and over-the-counter in either a tablet or suspension (liquid) that is taken by mouth. It is in a class of medications called H2 blockers and works by decreasing the amount of acid made in the stomach. Famotidine is used to treat ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and conditions where the stomach produces too much acid.

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More than 2,000 drugs, including penicillin, antibiotics, some epilepsy drugs and anti-inflammatory drugs including popular OTC brands Advil, Aleve and Motrin, have been linked to a rare but life threatening allergic reaction to medicine known as Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS). When people first present symptoms of the condition, they are most often misdiagnosed until the patient’s health worsens. Though rare, some cases can be fatal. Which is why it is important to understand SJS and recognize its symptoms so that medical attention can be sought early.

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Consumers are urged to take a close look at the labels of both over-the-counter and prescription medications and be aware of the potential side effects, according to Frank Woodson, shareholder with Beasley Allen Law Firm. Woodson was quoted in a recent issue of Lawsuit.com, warning consumers about Stevens Johnson Syndrome, or SJS, a rare but life-threatening reaction to many frequently used medications.

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Researchers are reportedly saying that antiviral medications Tamiflu and Relenza could help curb the intensity and effects of the swine flu for those who appear to becoming ill, however some doctors are warning that the antiviral drugs should only be taken if prescribed by a physician otherwise other serious conditions may arrise, according to The Standard.

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Mark Cripps’ sister Lisa has fought for much in her life. She is now in for what may be the fight of her life.

As a young child, Lisa contracted pneumonia and spent a month in the hospital. She grew up with an abusive stepmother and struggled through a difficult marriage. Despite the obstacles, she managed to raise two children and find a career in real estate. But last week, the young woman with an infectious personality, hit another road block. She was diagnosed with Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), an adverse reaction to antibiotics prescribed to her following minor surgery.

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Jean McCawley is a most deserving recipient of ABC 7’s Extreme Makeover: American Dream contest. The Westminster, Colorado, woman has been through a lot in the past several years, but she has kept her focus on helping others.

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One year ago this month, life was normal for Hannah. Then 15, she had been placed on trileptal to treat her bipolar diagnosis. She overlooked the initial side effects – every morning she would vomit and had lost a lot of weight. But otherwise, she led the active life of the average teenager.

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If you happen to fall ill during this season from colds and flu, take note of the prescriptions your doctor hands you, especially those for common antibiotics. Two years ago, my doctor prescribed Ketek for a lingering sinus infection that other meds just weren’t knocking out. He warned me to only take it if I really felt I needed it. He said it was a very strong antibiotic.

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Amy Clanton says her husband Ralph would not have taken Phenytoin to control his seizures if he knew the drug could have serious side effects, according to the West Virginia’s The Record. Without forewarning of the potential dangers, Ralph took the prescription medication and a month later noticed odd skin disruptions on his body. As his condition worsened, his eyelid peeled off while Amy applied eye drops to his eyes.

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Joe Way may have passed away in May, but he leaves behind a legacy that will touch lives in his community of Cornwall, England, forever.

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