Dilantin
From Holoprosencephaly
Dilantin
Generic Name: Phenytoin
Uses:
Phenytoin (Dilantin) is an anti-seizure medication. It reduces unstable electrical activity between brain cells and inhibits the spread of seizure activity in the motor cortex.
Phenytoin (Dilantin) is used to treat generalized tonic-clonic seizures, status epilepticus and non-epileptic seizures with various causes.
Forms:
Phenytoin (Dilantin) comes as a capsule, extended-release (long-acting) capsule, chewable tablet, and liquid to take by mouth. This medication is also available for IV injection.
Side Effects:
This is an incomplete list of side effects for Phenytoin (Dilantin). For more information about this medication, please consult your physician.
Side effects from phenytoin are common. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
drowsiness redness, irritation, bleeding, and swelling of the gums upset stomach vomiting constipation stomach pain loss of taste and appetite weight loss difficulty swallowing mental confusion blurred or double vision insomnia nervousness muscle twitching headache increased hair growth
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
difficulty coordinating movements skin rash easy bruising tiny purple-colored skin spots bloody nose slurred speech unusual bleeding yellowing of the skin or eyes dark urine swollen glands fever sore throat
Precautions:
- Discuss patient nutrition status with the physician or nutritionist. Phenytoin may cause an upset stomach. It is usually recommended this medication should not be taken on an empty stomach. However, it may not be recommended that this medication be taken at the same time as enteral bolus feedings. Your healthcare professional can provide appropriate recommendations for your situation.
- Notify doctor and pharmacist of all allergies.
- It is extremely important that you tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, supplements and vitamins you are taking. Phenytoin (Dilantin) affects the action of other medications, and many medications can affect the action of Phenytoin (Dilantin).
- Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had irregular heartbeat; low blood pressure; problems with your blood sugar; a blood disorder; or heart, kidney, or liver disease.
For more information about Phenytoin (Dilantin), please consult with your healthcare provider.
