What is Phenytoin used for?
Phenytoin is an antiseizure medication (anticonvulsant) used to prevent seizures. It helps control certain types of seizures such as complex partial seizures, grand mal seizures, and seizures that occur during or after brain surgery. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
What are the side effects of Phenytoin?
Like other medicines, Phenytoin can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Phenytoin are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.
It is pertinent to note that side effects of Phenytoin cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Phenytoin develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.
Phenytoin can cause side effects such as constipation, abdominal pain, tiredness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Phenytoin.
What is the recommended dosage of Phenytoin?
The dosage of Phenytoin prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.
Phenytoin should be taken along with food.
What if you miss a dose of Phenytoin?
If your physician has instructed or directed you to take Phenytoin medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed.
What if you overdose on Phenytoin?
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Phenytoin, seek medical attention immediately.
What other drugs could interact with Phenytoin?
- Chlorpromazine
- Cimetidine
- Disulfiram
- Famotidine
- Methylphenidate
- Nizatidine
- Prochlorperazine
- Ranitidine
- Thioridazine
It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Phenytoin.
Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines that may increase the effect of Phenytoin, and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.
Phenytoin can interact with certain sedatives, sulfa drugs, and stomach acid reducers.
Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.
What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Phenytoin?
Is it possible for me to take Phenytoin with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Phenytoin?
What are the possible drug interactions of Phenytoin?
How will Phenytoin work in my body?
How should Phenytoin be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Phenytoin drug interactions and side effects?
Note
The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of Phenytoin is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.