What type of drugs are most frequently associated with erythema multiforme?

Erythema multiforme is a hypersensitivity reaction often triggered by infections or medications. Among the medications, penicillins and sulfonamides are known to be some of the most frequently associated drugs with this condition. These drugs can provoke an immune response that leads to the characteristic skin lesions of erythema multiforme, including target lesions.

Penicillins, which are commonly used antibiotics, and sulfonamides, often used to treat bacterial infections, have been well-documented in medical literature as causing hypersensitivity reactions. The mechanism of action involves an interaction with the immune system, leadining to an inflammatory response that manifests as skin lesions.

Other drugs listed, while they have their own profiles of adverse effects, are not as commonly linked to erythema multiforme. Antihistamines are generally well-tolerated and less likely to cause such reactions. Beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors can have side effects, but they are not prominently associated with the development of erythema multiforme in the same manner as penicillins and sulfonamides. Thus, the association of erythema multiforme with penicillins and sulfonamides is solidified in clinical practice