Which of the following medications is commonly associated with Stevens-Johnson syndrome?

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a serious condition characterized by the widespread detachment of the epidermis and the formation of painful skin lesions, often induced by certain medications. Among the options listed, sulfonamide antibiotics are particularly well-known to be associated with SJS.

The mechanism behind the association with sulfonamides is believed to involve a hypersensitivity reaction leading to the activation of T-cells, which in turn trigger an immune response against the skin. This medication class includes drugs such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, which can cause severe skin reactions in susceptible individuals.

In contrast, while penicillin and amoxicillin can also cause adverse skin reactions, they are less commonly associated with SJS when compared to sulfonamides. Ciprofloxacin, which is a fluoroquinolone, has a different side effect profile and is not typically linked to SJS. Therefore, the connection between sulfonamide antibiotics and Stevens-Johnson syndrome is well-documented in clinical literature, highlighting their role as a significant risk factor for this serious skin condition.