Uses of Phenytoin

Phenytoin is used to treat certain forms of epilepsy (fits or seizures) and trigeminal neuralgia (facial nerve pain).

Therapeutic Category

Phenytoin: Anti-epileptic drugs

How Phenytoin works

Phenytoin controls seizure (fits) by reducing the abnormal activity of the nerve cells in the brain. It also reduces the pain by blocking the transmission of pain signals across the nervous system thus reduces the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia.

Common side effects of Phenytoin

• irregular or involuntary eye movements
• slurred speech
• drowsiness
• problems with movement and balance
• impaired or decreased coordination
• sleepiness
• mental confusion
• morbilliform (measles-like) rash
• confusion

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• severe allergic reactions
• signs of blood abnormalities (bruising, fever, severe sore throat, paleness, decreased red and white blood cells or platelets)
• shortness of breath, being unconscious or unresponsive
• bradycardia (signs include dizziness, tiredness, slow or skipping heart beats and chest pain)
• suicidal thoughts or actions (like thoughts or attempts of suicide or dying, new or worsened depression, anxiety or irritability, agitation or restlessness, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, aggression, anger or violence, acting on dangerous impulses, mania (extreme increase in activity and talking) and other unusual changes in behaviour or mood)
• confusion or mental illness (signs of high amount of medicine in the blood)

Health Tips for Phenytoin

• Take your medication at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of phenytoin in your body. Do not skip doses or stop taking the medication without discussing it with your doctor
• Regularly monitor your blood levels, health check ups and maintain good oral hygiene
• Drinking plenty of water can also help prevent potential side effects, such as dry mouth and increased thirst
• Avoid or limit alcohol consumption and certain recreational drugs while taking Phenytoin, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects
• Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
• Phenytoin should be used with caution in pregnant women
• Phenytoin is not recommended for use in breast feeding women