dilantin (PHENYTOIN)

What is Dilantin?

Dilantin is an antiepileptic (anticonvulsant) medication used to prevent and control seizures. It stabilizes electrical activity in the brain to prevent excessive neuronal firing that causes seizures.

What is the usual dose of Dilantin?

• Adults: Typical maintenance dose is 300 mg daily, divided into one or three doses. This may be adjusted based on blood levels and individual response.
• Children: Dose is usually based on body weight and determined by a healthcare provider.

How do I take Dilantin?

• Take Dilantin exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Swallow the capsules or tablets whole with a glass of water.
• If prescribed the liquid form, measure the dose carefully with a marked measuring device.
• Take it at the same time each day, with or without food.

For how long do I take Dilantin?

Dilantin is often taken long-term, as stopping it suddenly can increase the risk of seizures. Always consult your doctor before discontinuing.

What disease or symptom is Dilantin used for?

• Seizure control in epilepsy, including tonic-clonic (grand mal) and partial seizures.
• Prevention of seizures following neurosurgery or traumatic brain injury

How long does it take for Dilantin to start working?

Dilantin may take a few days to achieve effective blood levels and fully control seizures. Immediate effects may vary depending on the individual.

Is Dilantin effective?

Yes, Dilantin is effective in preventing seizures for many people with epilepsy. Regular monitoring of blood levels is important to maintain effectiveness.

How does one know if Dilantin is working?

• Fewer or no seizures.
• A healthcare provider may monitor Dilantin blood levels to ensure the drug is working effectively and safely.

How does Dilantin work?

Dilantin stabilizes the electrical activity in the brain by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels, which helps reduce abnormal brain activity that causes seizures.

Who should avoid taking Dilantin?

• Individuals with allergy to Dilantin or similar drugs.
• People with certain genetic variations (e.g., HLA-B*1502 in some Asian populations), which increase the risk of severe skin reactions.
• Those with severe liver disease or certain heart conditions (e.g., bradycardia).

Can I take Dilantin with other prescription drugs?

• Dilantin interacts with many medications, including:
  • Oral contraceptives (reduces effectiveness)
  • Blood thinners like warfarin
  • Other antiepileptic drugs
  • Certain antibiotics and antifungals
• Always inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking.

Can Dilantin be taken safely while pregnant?

Dilantin can increase the risk of birth defects and complications. However, uncontrolled seizures are also dangerous. Consult your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits.

Can Dilantin be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Small amounts of Dilantin pass into breast milk, but it is generally considered safe. Monitor the baby for side effects like drowsiness or feeding issues.

Is Dilantin safe for the elderly?

Elderly individuals may be more sensitive to Dilantin and prone to side effects such as dizziness, unsteadiness, and liver issues. Close monitoring is necessary.

How should I store Dilantin?

Keep the medicine in a cool place, between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Put it in a tightly closed container that blocks light. Make sure kids can't get to it.

Does Dilantin make people tired or drowsy?

Drowsiness is a common side effect, especially when starting treatment or adjusting the dose.

Does Dilantin cause stomach upset?

Stomach upset, nausea, or vomiting may occur but is usually mild.

Does Dilantin affect sleep?

Pilocarpine might make you feel anxious or nervous, and give you strange dreams. These feelings could make it hard to sleep. If you have trouble sleeping after taking pilocarpine, talk to your doctor.

Does Dilantin make it hard to think or concentrate?

Cognitive issues like difficulty concentrating or memory problems can occur in some individuals.

Does Dilantin affect mood?

Mood changes, including irritability or depression, are possible but less common.

Does Dilantin interfere with sexual function?

Dilantin does not typically interfere with libido or sexual performance.

Does Dilantin affect appetite?

Appetite changes are uncommon but may occur in some people.

Does Dilantin cause weight gain?

Weight gain is not a typical side effect of Dilantin

Does Dilantin cause headaches?

Some people taking pilocarpine (a medicine) get headaches. About 11% of those taking a typical dose get them, a bit more than the number of people who get headaches without taking the medicine (8%). If you get a headache while on pilocarpine, see your doctor. A bad reaction to pilocarpine can cause more severe versions of the same side effects, including a worse headache.

Does Dilantin limit driving?

Pilocarpine can blur your vision, especially at night. If this makes driving hard, stop driving and see a doctor.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Dilantin?

• Avoid alcohol, as it can lower seizure threshold and affect Dilantin blood levels, leading to toxicity or reduced effectiveness.

Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Dilantin?

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• Caffeine is generally safe but should be consumed in moderation, as excessive amounts may trigger seizures in some individuals.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Dilantin?

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• Yes, but avoid activities requiring precise coordination or balance if you experience dizziness or unsteadiness.

What are Dilantin possible harms and risks?

• Common side effects:
  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Gum overgrowth (gingival hyperplasia)
  • Skin rash
• Serious side effects:
  • Severe skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)
  • Liver toxicity
  • Bone thinning (osteoporosis) with long-term use
  • Blood disorders (e.g., low white blood cell counts)
  • Neurological effects like unsteadiness or slurred speech
• Regular monitoring is essential to detect potential side effects early.