Which drug class is commonly associated with Steven Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis?

The association of Steven Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) with certain medications is particularly pronounced in the anticonvulsant drug class. Anticonvulsants, such as lamotrigine, phenytoin, and carbamazepine, have been identified as significant culprits in the development of these severe cutaneous adverse reactions, which are characterized by widespread blistering, detachment of the epidermis, and potentially life-threatening systemic complications.

The mechanism by which anticonvulsants lead to these severe reactions may involve genetic predispositions, such as the presence of specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles that increase susceptibility. As a result, care is necessary in prescribing these medications, particularly in populations with known high-risk HLA types.

Other drug classes, while they may carry risks for adverse reactions, do not have the same levels of association with SJS and TEN as anticonvulsants do. For example, although some antivirals may cause skin reactions, the evidence linking them to SJS and TEN is significantly less robust. Similarly, beta-blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors are not strongly linked to these specific severe dermatologic conditions. This makes anticon