Phenytoin

Phenytoin is an anti-epileptic drug, also called an anticonvulsant. Phenytoin works by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause seizures.

Introduction #

Generic name: Phenytoin (oral)

Brand names: Dilantin, Phenytek

Drug classes: Group I antiarrhythmics, Hydantoin anticonvulsants

Uses #

Treatment and prevention of Epilepsy/Seizures

Benefits #

In Treatment and prevention of Epilepsy/Seizures

Eptoin Tablet is an anticonvulsant (or anti-epileptic) medicine that works by decreasing the nerve impulses which cause the seizures. By controlling the frequency of seizures, it will help you go about your daily activities with more confidence. It helps reduce symptoms such as confusion, uncontrollable jerking movements, loss of awareness, and fear or anxiety. This medicine is not associated with any physical or psychological dependence (addiction) but it should not be stopped suddenly. It must be taken regularly as prescribed to be effective. Missing doses may trigger a seizure.

Directions for use #

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Eptoin Tablet may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.

How it works? #

Eptoin Tablet is an antiepileptic medication. It controls seizures or fits by decreasing the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain.

Side effects #

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• Slow or uneven heartbeats, chest pain, fluttering in your chest, and dizziness (like you might pass out)

• Any skin rash, no matter how mild

• Fever, chills, sore throat, swollen glands

• Red or swollen gums, mouth sores

• Easy bruising, unusual bleeding, purple or red spots under your skin

• Liver problems - loss of appetite, upper stomach pain, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common phenytoin side effects may include:

• Drowsiness, confusion

• Slurred speech

• Abnormal eye movement

• Problems with balance, coordination, or muscle movement.

Warnings #

• You should not use phenytoin if you also take delavirdine (Rescriptor), or if you are allergic to ethotoin (Peganone), fosphenytoin (Cerebyx), or mephenytoin (Mesantoin).

• If you are pregnant, do not start taking this medicine unless your doctor tells you to. Phenytoin may cause harm to an unborn baby, but having a seizure during pregnancy could harm both the mother and the baby.

• If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, DO NOT STOP TAKING the medicine without your doctor’s advice. Seizure control is very important during pregnancy and the benefits of preventing seizures may outweigh any risks posed by using phenytoin.

• Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor, such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.