The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has published a warning that the anti-seizure medication Onfi (clobazam) may cause severe skin problems leading to permanent injury or even death. While the skin reactions are rare, the potential for serious harm is a real health threat.

Accordingly, the FDA has approved revisions to the Onfi drug label and patient Medication Guide so that physicians and users alike are aware of the risks of harm from the drug.

Patients who take Onfi should not delay in receiving medical treatment if they see any signs of a rash, blistering or peeling of the skin, sores in the mouth or hives. Medical professionals are urged to discontinue use of Onfi and find other treatments if they notice any rashes on their patients. The only exception is if the skin reaction is obviously not drug-related.

Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis are uncommon but dangerous skin conditions that can appear at any time when Onfi is prescribed. Reactions are most likely to occur in the first eight weeks of treatment or when Onfi is stopped and then restarted again. Patients who developed Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis had to be hospitalized. One case resulted in blindness and another ended in death.

Speak With Your Doctor

Onfi is a benzodiazepine medication that is intended to be used in combination with other medicines to treat seizures caused by a serious kind of epilepsy called Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. In general, severe skin conditions have not been linked with other benzodiazepine medicines.

Patients are advised not to stop taking Onfi before speaking with their doctors. By abruptly discontinuing this medication, serious withdrawal issues may follow such as constant seizures, hallucinations, shaking, anxiety and stomach or muscle cramps.

It’s possible that Onfi could cause serious reactions even if you don’t have a history of skin problems. That’s why you should seek immediate medical attention.

About the Author

Mark Joye is the Head of the Litigation Department at the Joye Law Firm. A Board-Certified Trial Advocate with nearly 30 years of litigation experience, he currently serves on the Board of Governors for the American Association for Justice and is a past president of the South Carolina Association for Justice. In a recent trial, Joye headed a trial team that secured $17 million for a family killed in a tractor-trailer accident.

Recent Blog Post
Image of a woman in a santa hat in the driver's seat of a car
National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month: How to Talk to Your Loved Ones About Driving Safe this Holiday Season

December marks National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month, a critical time for raising awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. With holiday celebrations increasing the risk of alcohol-related accidents, it’s vital to engage in open discussions with friends and…

What to Do in South Carolina: Staff Picks 11/28/23 – 12/4/23

As we usher in the holiday season, South Carolina is adorned with a myriad of festive events to spark joy and create lasting memories. Joye Law Firm, deeply rooted in the communities we serve, has handpicked some delightful happenings from…

Image of a group of friends in a car
Are Passengers or Drivers More Likely to be Injured in Crashes?

Riding in the passenger seat isn’t just about enjoying the view or controlling the playlist. When another person is behind the wheel, it can mean potential risks for you as a passenger. This is due to your positioning in the…

What to Do in South Carolina: Staff Picks 11/21/23 – 11/27/23

The holiday season is upon us, and Joye Law Firm is delighted to share handpicked events across South Carolina that promise festive fun for families and friends. From Charleston to Clinton, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this week! Charleston…

Awards & Recognition
Media
ABC
NBC
Fox
CBS News