What can occur if lamotrigine is not titrated slowly when starting treatment?

The correct answer highlights the risk of developing Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) if lamotrigine is not titrated slowly when starting treatment. Lamotrigine is an anticonvulsant medication commonly used for epilepsy and bipolar disorder, and it is known for its side effect of skin rashes that can progress to serious conditions like SJS or TEN.

SJS and TEN are severe dermatological reactions characterized by widespread skin detachment and mucosal involvement. These reactions can be life-threatening and are especially associated with medications that affect the immune system or modify the skin's integrity. Rapid dose escalation of lamotrigine increases the likelihood of these serious skin reactions. Thus, it's crucial to follow a careful titration schedule, especially during the initial phase of treatment, to minimize the risk of developing these dangerous conditions.

The other options do not have the same strong association with the rapid titration of lamotrigine. Weight gain is not a typical side effect of lamotrigine; in fact, it is more likely to be weight neutral or lead to weight loss. While cardiac arrest and renal failure are serious concerns in the management of various medical conditions, they are not directly linked to