Dilantin (Phenytoin Sodium) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Dilantin Uses

Dilantin, with the generic name phenytoin sodium, is an oral medication indicated to treat grand-mal (tonic-clonic) and temporal lobe (psychomotor) seizures. It is also used to prevent & treat seizures that could occur during or after neurosurgery.

This is available in Dilantin 100 mg and 30 mg extended capsule dosage forms.

Dilantin Mechanism of Action

This anticonvulsant is thought to work by involving the voltage-dependent blockade of sodium channel membranes. This results in a reduction in sustained high-frequency neuronal discharges.

How to use

To start, read the medication guide or information leaflet that comes with this product. Avoid taking this type of medication if you have not yet fully understood the warnings and drug information in the guide provided. If you need further medical advice on your condition or have questions on how this oral medication works, you may ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take the extended capsule orally. This is usually prescribed once daily or in divided doses, depending on the directions of your physician. It is best to take this with a meal to avoid stomach upset. Swallow the capsule whole and drink a full glass of water right after. Do not chew or split the capsules.

Remember to take this prescription medication regularly and exactly as directed. Make a dosing schedule to avoid skipping a dose. If antacids or nutritional tube-feeding (enteral) products are prescribed, do not take them together with phenytoin because the products mentioned above may decrease the absorption of Dilantin.

Do not alter your Dilantin dosage as it is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Also, you must not stop taking this drug abruptly to avoid worsening conditions.

Dilantin Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Feeling of spinning
• Drowsiness
• Vomiting
• Insomnia or trouble sleeping
• Nervousness
• Constipation
• Swelling or bleeding of the gums

For the most part, the side effects brought about by this anticonvulsant are mild and temporary. If the adverse reactions get worse or do not resolve, you should hold this drug and consult your doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, you must report severe side effects, such as:

• High blood sugar levels
• Slow heartbeat
• Unusual eye movements
• Loss of coordination
• Trouble speaking
• Confusion
• Muscle twitching
• Double or blurred vision
• Facial changes
• Tingling of extremities
• Excessive hair growth
• Unusual tiredness
• Increased thirst or urination
• Bone or joint pain
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Mental or mood changes

This is not a full or complete list of the side effects of Dilantin.

Precautions when using Dilantin

Before you begin to take this oral drug, you should disclose your complete medical history to your physician. This includes any history of alcohol abuse, porphyria, megaloblastic anemia, liver disease, and lupus. Some diseases and disorders may affect how your body will respond to this drug. Further, you should talk about all the prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking because of possible drug interactions.

Always watch out for an allergic reaction while on this treatment. Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to phenytoin, other anti-seizure medications, and any inactive ingredients each capsule may contain. Immediately discontinue medication and seek emergency medical attention once you experience signs of hypersensitivity, including severe headache, skin rashes, swelling of the face and neck, itchiness, and trouble breathing.

Among the adverse effects of Dilantin are dizziness and drowsiness. This could be triggered or aggravated by alcohol. Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Dilantin. You should also practice safety caution when doing activities that require alertness, like driving and using machinery.

Dilantin may cause depression or suicidal thoughts. Alert your local suicide hotline right away once you notice signs of suicide. Among the warning signs of suicide are giving away important belongings, changes in sleep patterns, social withdrawal, changes in behavior, and talking about death.

Pregnant and breastfeeding moms must not take this extended capsule because of the possible harm that it could cause to unborn babies and breastfed infants. Always remember that potential benefits should outweigh potential risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dilantin (phenytoin) a narcotic?

No, this drug is not a narcotic.

Can this medication cause neuropathy?

Neuropathy is unlikely when taking this medication.

What is Dilantin toxicity?

Toxicity happens when there is a high level of phenytoin in the system that could become harmful. This could lead to a coma.

Does this medication cause birth defects?

Yes, this medication may cause congenital anomalies and should be avoided by pregnant moms.

How much does Dilantin cost?

You may check for the prices of this medication from this page.