Publication:

Lamotrigine-induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome in a 25 year old lady

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is an immune-complex mediated hypersensitivity reaction and has been linked as an adverse side effect to many drugs. This case is about a 25 year old woman who had lamotrigine-induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome which is known to occur but is rare. Lamotrigine, an anticonvulsive medication and also a commonly used mood stabilizer was prescribed to the patient to treat symptoms of anxiety and depression. The patient developed Stevens-Johnson syndrome 5 weeks after start of therapy. This case is discussed for its relevance to the use of lamotrigine which is currently prescribed very commonly in psychiatric practices.