A woman who says she was left legally blind after a severe reaction to epilepsy medication has reported developing alarming symptoms again after taking an antibiotic for a dental infection. Khaliah Shaw, 36, from Georgia, said her face swelled and sensitive membranes became irritated after taking amoxicillin in July 2025.

She stopped the drug and sought emergency care, fearing the return of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), which nearly killed her in 2014. Shaw said a different antibiotic cleared the infection without a similar reaction, although the episode has not been confirmed as a second case of SJS.

Khaliah Shaw's Reaction to Lamotrigine

Shaw was prescribed lamotrigine in December 2013 after seeking treatment for depression, Georgia court records show. The drug treats epilepsy and bipolar disorder but can cause dangerous skin reactions.

In January 2014, she developed flu-like symptoms followed by a painful rash and extensive blistering, saying her skin 'melted off' her face, including around her eyes and lips. Court records confirm that she was diagnosed with SJS and toxic epidermal necrolysis, a more severe form of the condition.

Shaw said she spent 37 days in a medically induced coma and suffered skin injuries across 95% of her body. She also said that she woke with severely damaged eyesight and had to relearn walking, eating and swallowing.

She reported heart and neurological damage, throat scarring and post-traumatic stress disorder. Court records document multiple operations, permanent fingernail loss, sensitivity to light and impaired hair growth from scarring.

New Symptoms After Dental Treatment

In July 2025, Shaw received amoxicillin for a tooth infection and took six doses over two days, she said. Her face swelled, with irritation affecting her mouth, eyes and genital area. She sought emergency care but said staff dismissed her concerns and prescribed other medicines carrying SJS warnings.

A different antibiotic at a lower dose later cleared the infection without a similar reaction. The reported episode has not been confirmed as a second case of SJS. Shaw remains concerned that medical professionals may not take her history into account when prescribing treatment.

Read more

SJS and the Risk to Eyesight

SJS is a rare, potentially fatal reaction affecting skin and membranes lining the mouth, eyes and other areas. According to the NHS, it can begin with fever and flu-like symptoms before painful blisters develop and skin peels away. Triggers include certain epilepsy medicines, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory painkillers.

Severe cases can progress to toxic epidermal necrolysis, with extensive skin loss and risks including infection, dehydration and organ damage. Eye inflammation and corneal scarring can cause permanent sight loss. Hospital treatment involves stopping the suspected drug and may include intravenous fluids and specialised wound care.

Court Ruling on Shaw's Prescription

Shaw later filed a medical negligence lawsuit against several people and organisations involved in her treatment. Court records showed her lamotrigine dosage had been increased faster than the manufacturer's recommendations and that pharmacist Linda Smith had dispensed the prescriptions without warning her about possible side effects.

Two expert witnesses testified that following the recommended dosage schedule could have prevented Shaw's injuries. A jury found Smith partly responsible for the harm she suffered. In March 2025, a Georgia appeals court upheld a negligence judgment against Smith.

Shaw said she has never fully recovered from the reaction and is unable to return to work. She also reported that legal fees and medical expenses have left her with limited financial resources. The 2025 episode added to her concerns about receiving medical treatment, and she fears another reaction could put her life at risk.

Read more