SJS and its more severe form, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), have been associated with thousands of medications, most notably ibuprofen and anti-seizure drugs. The condition often begins with a fever, sore throat and burning eyes and is followed by a rash. The rash spreads and begins to blister, which causes the skin to peel off. This extremely painful condition requires immediate medical attention. Patients are often admitted to the hospital and because their peeling skin makes them prone to life-threatening infection, they are often treated in burn units. Blisters can also form on the eyes, mouth, and internal organs, causing permanent damage and vision problems.

Lamictal has also been linked to other dangerous conditions. Last week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that the drug’s safety label would be updated to include a warning for aseptic meningitis, an inflammation of the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. The drug was also named among other anticonvulsant medications that studies showed put users taking them for the first time at an increased risk of suicide, attempted suicide and violent deaths.

Anyone who experiences any severe side effects while taking Lamictal should contact their health care provider immediately. Any adverse events with this or any medication should be reported to the FDA MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting Program at www.FDA.gov/MedWatch.

SOURCE: Stevens Johnson Syndrome › Dilantin, Lamictal carry risk of serious skin condition called SJS

More than 200 medications have been associated with SJS/TEN, most commonly antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), and medication to treat seizures. SJS/TEN presents as a rash on the skin that blisters over and causes the skin to peel away much like that of a burn victim. Blisters can form in the mouth, on the eyes, and on internal organs, leading to dehydration, ocular problems including blindness, and in more severe cases, death.

Lamictal ODT was recently approved for use in the treatment of epilepsy and bipolar disorder by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is available in 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg and 200 mg strengths. The medication is expected to be available to consumers this month. Lamictal ODT matches the dosage of Lamictal tablets. Lamictal tablets carry the same warning of SJS/TEN.

Source: Monthly Prescribing Reference

SOURCE: Stevens Johnson Syndrome › Epilepsy, bipolar drug linked to rare skin reaction