FDA Warning Links Provigil to Stevens Johnson Syndrome

In 2007, the Food and Drug Administration issued a warning to physicians and consumers regarding the potentially deadly side effects of Provigil, a stimulant medication that is prescribed to treat a number of sleep disorders, including narcolepsy and sleep apnea.

Reports have surfaced linking Provigil to several serious adverse reactions, including Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS). SJS is a rare skin disorder that causes the skin and mucous membranes to become inflamed, leaving patients at risk for developing hypersensitivity and infection.

Provigil and Stevens Johnson Syndrome

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a serious medical condition that can lead to death if not treated properly. Some of the most common complications that occur in patients with SJS include meningitis, damage to the internal organs and sepsis – a bacterial infection in the bloodstream.

Patients taking Provigil should watch for the following Provigil side effects:

• Burning eyes
• Cough
• Excessive skin shedding
• Face and/or tongue swelling
• Fever
• Hives
• Rash that spreads within hours or days
• Red or purple rash
• Skin blisters
• Skin irritation and pain
• Sore throat

In addition to skin disorders, Provigil has been linked to several psychiatric side effects, such as anxiety, mania, hallucinations and suicide ideation.

Provigil is one of Cephalon's most widely prescribed drugs. In addition to Provigil, Cephalon Inc. produces Nuvigil, a sleep disorder drug that has been linked to some of the same side effects as Provigil.

Filing a Provigil Lawsuit

Patients who have suffered damages caused by Provigil might be entitled to receive compensatory damages to offset the cost of medical bills, lost income and emotional burdens. Drug manufacturers, like Cephalon Inc., are often held responsible for the damages their products cause and can be subject to personal injury litigation. The skilled attorneys of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz hold expertise in filing defective drug claims and can lend their experience to your case. To learn more about filing a Provigil lawsuit, contact AWKO today at (888) 255-2956.