Motrin contains ibuprofen, a painkiller that sometimes causes a life-threatening skin rash called Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). In recent years, juries have awarded over $120 million to children who were injured.
What You Can Do & How We Can Help
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Motrin induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with SJS, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Drug Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
$63 Million Awarded in Motrin SJS Lawsuit
In February 2013, a girl who developed SJS after taking Children’s Motrin was awarded $63 million by a jury in Massachusetts. The girl, Samantha Reckis, was just 7 years old when she was given Motrin in 2003. She lost 90% of her skin, 80% of her lung capacity, and was blinded by the rash, but miraculously survived.
$48 Million Awarded in Motrin SJS Lawsuit
In September 2011, a man who developed SJS after taking Children’s Motrin in 2005 was awarded $48 million by a jury in Los Angeles, California. The man, Christopher Trejo, was 15 years old at the time. The rash caused permanent vision loss and organ damage.
Jury Awards $10 Million in Motrin SJS Lawsuit
In June 2011, a girl who developed SJS after being given Motrin was awarded $10 million by a jury in Philadelphia. The girl, Brianna Maya, was 3 years old when she was given Motrin in 2000. The rash covered 84% of her body and caused permanent blindness in one eye.
What is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?
SJS is a rare but serious hypersensitivity reaction that can occur after a single dose of Motrin. The symptoms usually start with a flu-like illness, fatigue, fever, and nausea. The rash can develop anywhere on the body. It is painful, raised, red or purple, and spreads within hours.
Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN)
SJS can also involve the mucous membranes in the eyes, mouth, nose, throat, genitals, intestines, or lungs. As the rash progresses, the top layer of skin (epidermis) dies and peels off. If the rash covers more than 30% of the body, SJS is called Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). Another name for TEN is Lyell’s syndrome. The conditions are also sometimes diagnosed as erythema multiforme.
Motrin and SJS
Motrin (ibuprofen) belongs to a class of painkillers known as Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs have been on the market for decades. Case reports linking ibuprofen and SJS were published in the 1980s. The risk is higher for younger patients.
Motrin Label Updated With SJS Warnings
The label on Children’s Motrin was updated with stronger warnings about SJS in 2005. The FDA ordered drug-makers to add an “allergy alert” and “descriptions of early symptoms associated with Stevens-Johnson syndrome.”
Complications of SJS
- Dehydration
- Malnutrition
- Genial scarring
- Skin disfigurement
- Infections or sepsis
- Vision loss or blindness
- Organ failure
- Shock
- Death
Do I have a Motrin Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Motrin induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with SJS, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Drug Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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