Which of the following drugs is associated with the reaction of Stevens-Johnson syndrome?

The correct answer is D. Ethosuximide. Ethosuximide, an antiepileptic used for absence seizures, is the drug among these choices classically associated with Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), a severe mucocutaneous reaction involving widespread epidermal detachment and mucous membrane erosions. Valproic acid (A) is…

Abnormal Processes

Question

Options

AValproic acid
BQuinidine
CIsoniazid
DEthosuximide

How the community answered

(59 responses)

A
8% (5)
B
5% (3)
C
14% (8)
D
73% (43)

Explanation

Ethosuximide, an antiepileptic used for absence seizures, is the drug among these choices classically associated with Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), a severe mucocutaneous reaction involving widespread epidermal detachment and mucous membrane erosions. Valproic acid (A) is better known for hepatotoxicity, teratogenicity (neural tube defects), and thrombocytopenia - not SJS. Quinidine (B) is associated with cinchonism, torsades de pointes, and immune thrombocytopenic purpura. Isoniazid (C) causes peripheral neuropathy (B6 depletion), hepatotoxicity, and a drug-induced lupus-like syndrome. A useful mnemonic: think "Absence drugs can VANISH your skin" - among the absence epilepsy drugs, ethosuximide carries the SJS risk, while valproate's danger is to the liver and fetus.

Topics

#Stevens-Johnson syndrome#Anticonvulsants#Adverse drug reactions#Ethosuximide

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