Which medication should be started at a low dosage and titrated slowly to minimize the risk of Stevens-Johnson syndrome?

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Lamotrigine is particularly known for its association with Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), a serious skin reaction that can occur with the use of certain anticonvulsants. Starting lamotrigine at a low dosage is crucial because rapid initiation or doses that are too high can significantly increase the risk of SJS, especially in certain populations, such as those with co-occurring conditions or when other medications that also carry a risk for this syndrome are used concurrently.

The dosing strategy for lamotrigine involves starting with a low dose and gradually titrating upwards. This gradual increase allows for careful monitoring of the patient for any signs of skin reactions while minimizing the likelihood of developing serious side effects. Other medications mentioned, while they may have their own risks and side effects, do not carry the same level of concern regarding SJS when initiating treatment. Thus, the slow titration of lamotrigine is a critical aspect of its use to ensure patient safety.

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