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Common brand names: Dilantin, Dilantin Infatabs,
Dilantin Kapseals, Phenytek
Type of medication: Anticonvulsant
Why is this drug prescribed?
Phenytoin is prescribed to treat epilepsy. It helps control the frequency
and severity of seizures by slowing down the central nervous system.
How is phenytoin given?
Phenytoin comes in the form of capsules, chewable tablets, oral suspension
(a liquid solution) or it is injected. Your doctor can help you decide which
form is best for you and will tell you how much to take at each dose.
In order for phenytoin to effectively control your seizures, it is important
that a constant amount of it remains in the bloodstream. In order to accomplish
this, try taking the drug around the same time everyday as ordered by your
doctor. If this medication upsets your stomach, take it with food unless your
doctor says otherwise. The capsule form of the medication should be swallowed
whole. The chewable tablet may be chewed or swallowed whole. If you are taking
the liquid form of phenytoin, be sure to shake the bottle well before taking it.
Follow the directions on the prescription label carefully. If there is any
part that you do not understand, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Do not take any
more or less than prescribed and do not take it more often than prescribed.
What special precautions should I follow before using this drug?
Before taking phenytoin, inform your doctor of any prescription or
over-the-counter medications that you are currently taking; this includes any
herbal medications or dietary supplements that you are taking. Also, be sure to
tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems including any:
- Drug or alcohol abuse or a history of
- Blood diseases
- Porphyria (inherited diseases characterized by skin sensitivity to
sunlight and/or by intermittent acute attacks of abdominal and nerve pain)
- Diabetes mellitus
- Lupus
- Heart disease
- Thyroid disease
- Kidney or liver disease
What special instructions should I follow while using this drug?
Phenytoin adds to the effects of other central nervous system suppressants
such as alcohol and those found in many antihistamines, cold medications, pain
medications and muscle relaxants. Check with your doctor before taking any of
these items.
Because this medication can cause drowsiness and dizziness, make sure you are
aware of how this drug reacts before driving or using machines that require you
to be alert.
Do not take this medicine within 2 to 3 hours of taking an antacid or
medication for diarrhea. These medications can cause phenytoin to be less
effective.
If you have diabetes, phenytoin may affect your blood sugar levels. If you
detect a change in your blood sugar tests, contact your doctor.
Oral contraceptives that contain estrogen or progestin may not work properly
while taking phenytoin. To prevent an unwanted pregnancy, ask your doctor about
a different means of birth control.
Before you have any kind of surgery, dental treatment or emergency treatment,
tell your doctor or dentist if you are using this medication.
Your doctor may want you to carry a medical identification card or bracelet
stating that you are taking this medication.
If you are taking the capsule form of phenytoin, do not take capsules that
are not full or in which the contents may have melted.
NEVER suddenly stop using this medication without your doctor's assistance.
What are the common side effects?
The most common side effects of phenytoin include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
When should I call my doctor?
If you experience any of the following side effects, contact you doctor
immediately:
- Bleeding, tender or enlarged gums
- Fast, irregular heartbeat
- Burning, tingling, pain or itching, especially in the groin
- Clumsiness
- Confusion
- Unsteadiness
- Uncontrolled back-and-forth and/or rolling eye movements
- Swollen glands in the neck or underarm
- Muscle pain
- Slurred speech or stuttering
- Skin rash
- Easy bruising
What should I do if I forget a dose?
If you take more than one dose a day, take the missed dose as soon as
possible. However, if it is within 4 hours of your next dose, simply skip the
missed dose and proceed with your regular schedule. If you only take one dose a
day, take it as soon as possible, however if you do not remember until the
following day, skip it and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take a
double dose of this medication.
What storage conditions are necessary for this drug?
Phenytoin should be kept in its original container, tightly sealed and away
from children. The capsule form should be stored in room temperature, away from
excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom) and out of direct sunlight. Any
medication that is outdated or unused should be thrown away. Do not refrigerate
or freeze the liquid form of phenytoin.
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