Intelence is a tablet available only by prescription. It is a type of anti-HIV medicine called a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), also known as a non-nuke. It is used to control HIV infection in adults and must be used in conjunction with other HIV medications. Intelence is for patients who have previously received treatment for HIV-1 and showed resistance to NNRTIs and protease inhibitors.

The clinical trials revealed that Intelence does carry a slight risk for serious skin reactions such as Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), hypersensitivity reaction and erythema multiforme.

More than 200 medications have been linked to SJS and its more severe form, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), most commonly ibuprofen, antibiotics and anti-seizure medications. SJS and TEN are severe expressions of a simple rash known as erythema multiforme. As the condition worsens, the rashes blister over causing the skin to peel off. Mucus membranes, such as the mouth and eyes, can blister over causing dehydration, infection, blindness and even death.

Patients taking medication, including Intelence, should be aware of the potential life-threatening risk of SJS/TEN

SOURCE: Stevens Johnson Syndrome › HIV treatment linked to slight risk of SJS/TEN