Which side effect is specifically associated with non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs)?

Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) are a class of antiretroviral drugs used in the treatment of HIV, and they are known to be associated with specific side effects. Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a severe skin reaction that can occur with certain medications, including NNRTIs.

The mechanism by which NNRTIs induce SJS is thought to involve a hypersensitivity reaction, leading to extensive epidermal detachment and serious complications. Symptoms of SJS include fever, flu-like symptoms, followed by the appearance of painful red or purplish rash that can lead to blistering and skin loss. Among the NNRTIs, efavirenz and nevirapine have been particularly noted for this adverse effect, although SJS remains a rare occurrence.

In contrast, while hypersensitivity syndrome (often associated with other classes of medications) can also be a concern, it does not uniquely characterize NNRTIs as SJS does. Pneumonitis is not specifically linked to NNRTIs; rather, it may be seen with certain nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) or other drugs. Lastly, kidney stones are typically associated with certain protease inhibitors rather than NN