Dilantin

The active ingredient in Dilantin is phenytoin sodium. It operates by slowing down impulses and calming overactive nerves in the brain that initially cause seizures.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Dilantin. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Dilantin:

• Take this medication orally as directed by your physician.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double doses.
• Avoid drinking alcohol since alcohol intake can increase blood levels of phenytoin, which can increase the side effects experienced.
• A decrease in vitamin D and folic acid levels in the blood can be experienced while taking Dilantin. Adequate vitamin intake is crucial.

The most common side effects of Dilantin include:

• Difficulty with paying attention, memory, or speech.
• Dizziness.
• Drowsiness or tiredness.
• Headache.
• Trouble sleeping.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Dilantin. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Serious and sometimes life-threatening allergic reactions - skin rash, skin reaction, itching, hives, swelling.
• Liver problems - upper stomach pain, loss of appetite, nausea, dark yellow urine, unusual fatigue, yellowing of the skin or eyes.
• Infection - fever, chills, cough, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, unusual bleeding.
• High blood sugar (hyperglycemia).
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm or worsening mood.
• Heart problems - low heartbeat, dizziness, chest pain, feeling lightheaded, confusion, trouble breathing.
• Phenytoin toxicity - abnormal eye movement, loss of balance or coordination, trouble speaking, unusual fatigue, vomiting.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Dilantin. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Dilantin, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Heart problems.
• Liver disease.
• Diabetes.
• Depression.
• Suicidal thoughts.
• Vitamin D deficiency or any other condition that causes thinning of the bones.
• Porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system).
• Asian ancestry.

• If a woman is pregnant.
• Hypersensitivity reaction to phenytoin or fosphenytoin.
• Current intake of delavirdine.

It takes about 7 to 10 days for the levels of phenytoin in your body to stabilize on a normal starting dose. Then your healthcare provider will gradually increase the dose to an appropriate amount. It can take up to 4 weeks before you start to feel the full benefits of this drug.

When Dilantin is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• St. John's Wort.
• Blood thinning medications (warfarin, dabigatran, rivaroxaban).
• Calcium carbonate.
• Female hormones (estrogen, birth control pills).
• Medications for stomach problems (antacids, cimetidine, sucralfate).
• Other seizure medications (carbamazepine, ethosuximide, lamotrigine, phenobarbital, topiramate, vigabatrin).
• Delavirdine.

Dilantin comes in a variety of forms, including:

• Immediate release capsule.
• Liquid suspension.
• Chewable tablet.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and light, and keep out of reach of children.

Pfizer is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Dilantin.

There are lower-cost generics available for the brand name Dilantin.

Do not start or adjust your use of this medication without first consulting with your doctor. Stopping Dilantin suddenly can cause seizures that will not stop (status epilepticus).

Do not take this medication if you are pregnant since your baby is at risk for serious birth defects and bleeding problems right after birth. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medication. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.