Can Lamictal cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome?
Can Lamictal cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome?
Stevens-Johnsons Syndrome (SJS) is an immune-complex-mediated hypersensitivity reaction and has been linked as an adverse side effects to many drugs. Lamotrigine, an anticonvulsive medication and also a commonly used mood stabiliser, can be associated with this adverse reaction.
How common is SJS with Lamictal?
Adverse skin reactions occur in 8.3% of patients taking lamotrigine, with 0.04% of patients developing SJS/TEN. This rate of SJS/TEN is far greater than that reported for other well-known trigger medications including phenobarbital (0.02%), nitrofurantoin (0.007%) and sulfamethoxazole with trimethoprim (0.003%).
Should I stop taking Lamictal if I get a rash?
Unless you’re sure the rash isn’t related to it, you should stop taking Lamictal immediately and contact your doctor. There’s no way to tell if a mild rash will turn into something more serious. Depending on your reaction, your doctor may lower your dose of or take you off of the medication entirely.
What syndrome can lamotrigine cause?
There are adverse effects with lamotrigine such as a headache, blurred vision, diplopia, somnolence, ataxia, dizziness, rash, Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis. SJS is a life-threatening, blistering mucocutaneous disease.
Is Steven Johnson syndrome hereditary?
SJS/TEN is not an inherited condition. However, the genetic changes that increase the risk of developing SJS/TEN can be passed from one generation to the next.
How does Lamictal work for bipolar?
It is especially effective in the prevention of bipolar depression. It was the first FDA-approved therapy since lithium for maintenance in bipolar disorder. Lamictal is considered a mood-stabilizing anticonvulsant and is most commonly prescribed to prevent or control seizures in the treatment of epilepsy.
Does Lamictal cause Stevens Johnson syndrome?
Although not all rashes caused by the use of Lamictal are severe, in some patients it can lead to a potentially fatal condition known as Stevens – Johnson Syndrome or its more severe form Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). If a patient is taking Lamictal and develops SJS, the drug should immediately be discontinued.
