Hypersensitivity syndrome to antiepileptic drugs: a review including new anticonvulsants.

Anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome, a potentially fatal but rare reaction, manifests as rash, fever, tender lymphadenopathy, hepatitis, and eosinophilia. To manage hypersensitivity syndrome successfully, one must recognize the symptoms early, stop the offending drug immediately, and substitute a safe, alternative anticonvulsant medication. Hypersensitivity syndrome has not been described in patients taking benzodiazepines or the newer anticonvulsants gabapentin or topiramate, and these appear to be safe substitutes for drugs that cause the reaction.