Dilantin

Generic name: Phenytoin sodium

What is Dilantin?

Dilantin is an antiepileptic drug prescribed to control grand mal seizures (a type of seizure in which the individual experiences a sudden loss of consciousness immediately followed by generalized convulsions) and temporal lobe seizures (a type of seizure caused by disease in the cortex of the temporal [side] lobe of the brain affecting smell, taste, sight, hearing, memory, and movement).

What is the most important information I should know about Dilantin?

If you have been taking Dilantin regularly, do not stop abruptly. This may precipitate prolonged or repeated epileptic seizures without any recovery of consciousness between attacks—a condition called status epilepticus that can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Who should not take Dilantin?

If you have ever had an allergic reaction to or are sensitive to phenytoin or similar epilepsy medications such as ethotoin or mephenytoin, do not take Dilantin. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Dilantin?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver problems. Because Dilantin is processed by the liver, people with impaired liver function, older adults, and those who are seriously ill may show early signs of drug poisoning.

Also let the doctor know if you have diabetes. Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) may occur in people taking Dilantin, which blocks the release of insulin. People with diabetes may experience increased blood sugar levels due to Dilantin.

If you have bone disease, be aware that abnormal softening of the bones may occur in people taking Dilantin because of the drug's interference with vitamin D metabolism.

Tell the doctor if you have dental problems. Because Dilantin can cause gingival hyperplasia (excessive formation of the gums over the teeth), it is important to practice good dental hygiene while using this drug.

Also tell the doctor if you develop a skin rash. If the rash is scale-like, characterized by reddish or purplish spots, or consists of (fluid-filled) blisters, your doctor may stop Dilantin and prescribe an alternative treatment. If the rash is more like measles, your doctor may have you stop taking Dilantin until the rash is completely gone.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Dosage is tailored to each individual's needs. Your doctor will monitor blood levels of the drug closely, particularly when switching you from one drug to another.

Adults: Standard Daily Dosage.

If you have not had any previous treatment, your doctor will have you take one 100-milligram Dilantin capsule 3 times daily to start.

On a continuing basis, most adults need 1 capsule 3 to 4 times a day. Your doctor may increase that dosage to 2 capsules 3 times a day, if necessary.

Once-A-Day Dosage

If your seizures are controlled on 100-milligram Dilantin capsules 3 times daily, your doctor may allow you to take the entire 300 milligrams as a single dose once daily.

Children: The starting dose is 5 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day, divided into 2 or 3 equal doses; the most a child should take is 300 milligrams a day. The regular daily dosage is usually 4 to 8 milligrams per 2.2 pounds. Children over 6 years of age and adolescents may need the minimum adult dose (300 milligrams per day).

How should I take Dilantin?

It is important that you strictly follow the prescribed dosage regimen and tell your doctor about any condition that makes it impossible for you to take Dilantin as prescribed.

If you are given Dilantin Oral Suspension, shake it well before using. Use the specially marked measuring spoon, a plastic syringe, or a small measuring cup to measure each dose accurately.

Swallow Dilantin Kapseals whole. Dilantin Infatabs can be either chewed thoroughly and then swallowed, or swallowed whole. The Infatabs are not to be used for once-a-day dosing.

Do not change from one form of Dilantin to another without consulting your doctor. Different products may not work the same way.

What should I avoid while taking Dilantin?

Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages while taking Dilantin.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Dilantin?

If Dilantin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Dilantin with the following:

Alcohol,Amiodarone,Antacids containing calcium,Blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin,Chloramphenicol,Chlordiazepoxide,Cimetidine,Diazepam,Dicumarol,Digitoxin,Disulfiram,Doxycycline,Estrogens,Ethosuximide,Felbamate,Fluoxetine,Furosemide,Isoniazid,Major tranquilizers such as chlorpromazine and thioridazine,Methylphenidate,Molindone hydrochloride,Oral contraceptives,Paroxetine,Phenobarbital,Quinidine,Reserpine,Rifampin,Salicylates such as aspirin,Seizure medications such as carbamazepine, ethosuximide, and valproic acid,Steroid drugs such as prednisone,Sucralfate,Sulfa drugs such as sulfisoxazole,Theophylline,Ticlopidine,Tolbutamide,Trazodone,Ulcer medications such as cimetidine and ranitidine,Tricyclic antidepressants (such as amitriptyline, desipramine, and others) may cause seizures in susceptible people, making a dosage adjustment of Dilantin necessary.

What are the possible side effects of Dilantin?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine whether it is safe for you to continue taking Dilantin.

Side effects may include: Decreased coordination, involuntary eye movement, mental confusion, slurred speech

Can I receive Dilantin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Because of the possibility of birth defects with antiepileptic drugs such as Dilantin, you may need to discontinue the drug. Do not, however, stop taking it without first consulting your doctor. Dilantin appears in breast milk; breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with this drug.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Dilantin?

If you take one dose a day, take the dose you missed as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

If you take more than 1 dose a day, take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is within 4 hours of your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

If you forget to take your medication 2 or more days in a row, check with your doctor.

How should I store Dilantin?

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.