Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a potential side effect of which class of antiretroviral medications?

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a severe skin reaction that can be triggered by certain medications, including some antiretroviral agents. Among the classes of antiretroviral medications, non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) are particularly associated with this adverse effect.

NNRTIs, which include drugs like efavirenz and nevirapine, can cause hypersensitivity reactions in some patients, leading to SJS. The mechanism behind this is thought to involve immune-mediated responses, where the body reacts inappropriately to the drug, resulting in widespread skin lesions and systemic symptoms.

In contrast, while other classes such as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), protease inhibitors, and integrase inhibitors may have their own distinct side effects, they are not commonly associated with the development of SJS as prominently as NNRTIs are. Therefore, recognizing the potential for severe skin reactions, specifically SJS, is critical in managing patients receiving NNRTIs, ensuring careful monitoring and early recognition of any symptoms.