The HIV drug treatment Viramune XR, which is used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs to treat HIV-1 infections in adults, comes with a warning against the possibility of developing Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

The drug was approved because of one principal clinical trial (1100.1486) that showed that it could provide a “prolonged suppression of HIV-1 RNA through 48-weeks, and a supportive trial (1100.1526).” The drug comes with the usual list of warnings. One of the warnings mentions a rash that can lead to Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that causes sufferers to burn from the inside out. One of the early symptoms of SJS is a red or purplish rash that spreads.

The warning listed with the Viramune XR states, “Severe or life-threatening rash considered to be related to nevirapine treatment occurred in 1 percent of subjects during the lead-in phase with immediate-release VIRAMUNE, and in 1 percent of subjects in either treatment group during the randomization phase. In addition, five cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome were reported in the trial, all of which occurred within the first 30 days of nevirapine treatment.”

Viramune XR in a 200 mg dose has to be followed to the letter, but it can reduce the patient’s chances of getting the SJS rash. However, if the rash persists for longer than the 14-day lead-in period with the immediate-release of Viramune, you are warned not to use the extended release version. Patients are also warned not to use Viramune XR for more than 28 days.

If you develop Stevens-Johnson syndrome after taking Viramune XR, contact SJS lawyer Greg Jones today for a free consultation. I am experienced at fighting SJS lawsuits and may be able to help you recover money for your injuries.