Dilantin
Generic Name:
Phenytoin, phenytoin sodium
Brand Names:
Dilantin, Dilantin-125, Dilantin-30
Dilantin Description:
Dilantin is an anticonvulsant medication used to control seizures and prevent them during brain surgery. Seizures occur due to abnormal changes in the electrical activity of the brain. Dilantin helps prevent seizures by inhibiting hyperactivity in the motor cortex, the area of the brain involved in motor function and muscle movement.
Dilantin Side Effects:
Some of the more common side effects of Dilantin include:
- Reduced coordination
- Confusion
- Nervousness
- Slurred speech
- Breathing difficulties
- Difficulty swallowing
- Reduced muscle control
- Involuntary eye movement
For more information, see our Dilantin side effects page.
Dilantin Uses:
Dilantin is used in the prevention and treatment of seizures in patients with seizure disorders as well as in patients undergoing brain surgery. The most common seizure disorder is epilepsy, a chronic condition in which abnormal brain activity stimulates recurring seizures.
Dilantin Interactions:
Patients should talk to their doctor about the use of any other medications, vitamins or supplements before taking Dilantin.
A variety of medications and substances may adversely interact with Dilantin. Some that may dangerously increase the effects of Dilantin include:
- Amiodarone
- Chloramphenicol
- Chlordiazepoxide
- Cimetidine
- Diazepam
- Dicumarol
- Disulfiram
- Estrogens
- Ethosuximide
- Fluoxetine
- H2-agonists
- Halothane
- Isoniazid
- Methylphenidate
- Phenothiazines
- Phenylbutazone
- Salicylates
- Succinimides
- Sulfonamides
- Ticlopidine
- Tolbutamide
- Trazodone
Medications that may decrease the effects of Dilantin include:
- Carbamazepine
- Reserpine
- Sucralfate
- Moban
- Antacids
Other medications and substances that may interfere with Dilantin include:
- Alcohol
- Phenobarbital
- Valproic acid
- Sodium valproate
- Corticosteroids
- Anticoagulants
- Digitoxin
- Doxycycline
- Furosemide
- Oral contraceptives
- Paroxetine
- Quinidine
- Rifampin
- Theophylline
- Vitamin D
Dilantin Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Dilantin dosages may vary among patients. Your doctor will establish the size and frequency of your dosage depending upon your individual needs. It is important to follow the dosage guidelines established by your doctor.
Dilantin is available in the form of an extended release oral capsule, a chewable tablet and a liquid solution. Patients using the chewable tablets or the liquid solution generally take two to three doses a day. Patients taking the extended release capsules typically take the medication anywhere from one to four times a day. Patients should take their medication at approximately the same time every day.
Patients should not abruptly discontinue use of this medication without first speaking with their doctor, as a sudden discontinuation of treatment may result in status epilepticus, a dangerous condition in which seizures occur continually.
Missing a Dose of Dilantin
If you forget to take a dose of Dilantin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosage schedule. Do not consume a double dose of this medication to compensate for a missed dose.
Dilantin Overdose
An overdose of Dilantin may result in serious complications and potential fatality. Patients should seek immediate medication if they believe they may have overdosed on this medication.
Dilantin FDA Approval:
March 1, 1956
Dilantin Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
During the 1990s the makers of Dilantin issued a number of recalls due to drug dissolution problems as well as product discoloration. Some of the medication was at risk of not meeting the dissolution standards through the expiration date, which posed the possibility that a lower than prescribed dosage would be absorbed in the body. Other products were recalled because of abnormal yellow discoloration.
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