The FDA is warning Americans of popular drugs used to treat seizures called Levetiracetam and clobazam, which have been linked to a reaction called Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS).
The reaction is known to cause rashes across the body but can quickly progress into internal organs, failing and even death. Eosinophilia is also known to cause an increase in eosinophils in the blood, which are white blood cells used to fight infection. However, if too many eosinophils are present, it can cause a reaction, typically from drug use. Levetiracetam is sold under Keppra, while Clobazam is sold under Onfi.
The FDA does not want the taker of the drug to throw it out; instead, it will include a warning label to inform users of DRESS and its side effects. The FDA also acknowledges that the sensitivity to these drugs is rare but can still happen.
Seek a doctor immediately or call 911 if you believe that someone may be experiencing the following symptoms from a very severe case of eosinophilia or DRESS: shortness of breath, eczema, frequent stomach aches, or wheezing.