What causes Stevens-Johnson-Syndrome?
Doctors do not fully understand the syndrome, but they believe the majority of cases are caused by an adverse reaction to a drug. Drugs that are implicated include the sulfonamides and penicillin antibiotics, barbiturates, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, drugs for HIV and lupus and certain anti-seizure drugs. People have also been known to develop SJS from taking over-the counter painkillers, cocaine and herbal ginseng. There may be genetic factors making certain people more likely to have a reaction. More rarely, the syndrome can be caused by infections or cancer.