Phenytoin

Dilantin

Dilantin (phenytoin) is a widely used anticonvulsant medication prescribed to control and prevent various types of seizures, including psychomotor and tonic-clonic seizures. It is available in several forms such as capsules, chewable tablets, injectables, and oral suspension. Dilantin works by stabilizing the brain’s electrical activity, making it effective for managing seizures related to brain surgery and epilepsy. Regular monitoring of phenytoin levels and potential side effects like coordination issues and allergic reactions is crucial for safety.

Product Overview

Dilantin, the brand name for phenytoin, serves as a critical medication in the management and prevention of seizures, particularly psychomotor and tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures, and those occurring post-brain surgery. Available in various forms including extended-release capsules, immediate-release capsules, chewable tablets, injectable solutions, and oral suspension, Dilantin offers flexible administration options. 

It functions by modulating sodium channels in the neurons, thus slowing down excessive electrical firing in the brain which can lead to seizures. Despite its effectiveness, users must be aware of potential side effects such as impaired coordination, uncontrolled eye movements, and serious allergic reactions. 

Regular blood tests are necessary to optimize dosage and monitor side effects, particularly when starting treatment, changing doses, or stopping the medication. Dilantin is also associated with risks like bone health deterioration, liver damage, and potentially harmful effects on pregnancy, underscoring the need for medical supervision and appropriate dosage adjustments based on individual health conditions.

What Is Dilantin Used For?

• Psychomotor seizures (originating in the temporal lobe)
• Tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures
• Seizures occurring during and post-brain surgery

What Are the Benefits of Dilantin?

• Effectively controls and prevents seizures, particularly tonic-clonic (grand mal) and complex partial seizures.
• Long-standing history of use, with well-documented safety and efficacy profiles.
• Available in multiple formulations (capsules, oral suspension, injectable) for flexible administration.
• Can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other anti-epileptic medications.
• Generally well-tolerated when properly monitored and dosed.
• Helps prevent seizure-related injuries and complications.
• May improve quality of life by reducing seizure frequency and severity.
• Relatively affordable compared to some newer anti-epileptic medications.
• Can be used in both adults and children with epilepsy.
• Long-acting formulation allows for consistent seizure control.
• Regular blood level monitoring helps ensure optimal therapeutic effect.
• Proven track record in emergency treatment of status epilepticus (prolonged seizures).

What Are the Side Effects of Dilantin?

Common Dilantin side effects may include:

• Impaired or deteriorating coordination
• Uncontrolled eye movements
• Slurred speech
• Confusion
• Increased sleepiness

[Note: This list is not exhaustive, if you notice any other symptoms that are not mentioned above, consult your doctor immediately.]

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Dilantin?

Dilantin is available in different forms and strengths:

• Extended-release capsules: 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg
• Immediate-release capsules: 30 mg, 100 mg
• Chewable tablets: 50 mg
• Injectable solution: 50 mg/mL
• Oral suspension: 125 mg/5 mL

What Is the Typical Dosage of Dilantin?

Dosage of Dilantin for Adults

• Seizure Control: Start with 100 mg three times daily. Adjust dosage based on effectiveness and blood levels, typically between 300 to 600 mg per day.
• Status Epilepticus: Use a loading dose in urgent situations, followed by maintenance doses as needed based on clinical outcomes and blood levels.

Dosage of Dilantin for Elderly

• General Use: Begin at lower doses due to increased sensitivity. Carefully monitor blood levels and adjust dosage accordingly.

Dosage of Dilantin for Children

• Seizure Control: Start with 5 mg/kg/day, split into two or three doses. Do not exceed a daily maintenance dose of 300 mg.

Dosage of Dilantin for Patients with Renal or Hepatic Impairment

• Adjusted Dosing: May require reduced or less frequent doses. Critical to monitor blood levels to prevent toxicity.

How to Take Dilantin?

• Always take Dilantin at the same time each day to maintain steady blood levels.
• You can take Dilantin with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, try taking it with food to ease discomfort.
• Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules. Swallow them whole, especially the extended-release capsules, to ensure the medication is released slowly.
• Shake the oral suspension well before use to mix the medication evenly. Measure the dose with a medicine-measuring device, not a kitchen spoon.
• Avoid drinking alcohol as it can increase side effects and reduce the effectiveness of Dilantin.
• Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor Dilantin levels and check for side effects, especially when starting or changing your dosage.
• Do not stop taking Dilantin suddenly as it can lead to severe seizures. Your doctor should guide you in gradually reducing the dose if needed.

What to Do When You Miss a Dose of Dilantin?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double your dose.

[Note: Do not take two doses of Dilantin at the same time to compensate for a missed dose. This can increase your risk of experiencing side effects.]

What Happens When You Overdose on Dilantin?

An overdose of Dilantin is an emergency. Symptoms include severe drowsiness, uncontrollable eye movements, loss of balance, slurred speech, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. Call emergency services right away.

[Note: If you notice you have taken too much medication, call your local emergency number immediately.]

How Does Dilantin Work?

Dilantin works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain by reducing the ionic fluxes across neuronal membranes. This modulation of sodium channels prevents excessive brain activity, effectively controlling seizures without causing sedation.

What Are the Important Safety Precautions of Dilantin?

• Withdrawal Seizures: Never stop or adjust phenytoin without consulting a healthcare provider due to risk of severe seizures.
• Suicidal Thoughts or Behavior: Monitor mood changes and seek immediate help if suicidal thoughts occur.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Phenytoin can cause life-threatening reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome; emergency care needed for symptoms.
• Heart Effects: May cause serious heart issues, particularly in those with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Liver Damage: Can lead to severe liver damage; look out for symptoms like fever, stomach pain, or jaundice.
• Blood Cell Changes: Regular monitoring needed as phenytoin may decrease blood cell counts.
• Bone Health: Long-term use can reduce vitamin D levels and increase fracture risk; bone health monitoring recommended.
• High Phenytoin Levels: Excessive levels can cause neurological issues; regular blood level checks necessary.
• Fetal Harm: Discuss risks with a doctor if pregnant; phenytoin may cause birth defects.
• High Blood Sugar: Monitor glucose levels as phenytoin may increase blood sugar.
• Boxed Warning: Includes risks of severe cardiovascular reactions from rapid IV infusion, severe skin reactions, and acute hepatic failure.
• Precautions: Inform doctors about allergies, medical history, and all medications. Monitor for dizziness and manage diabetes carefully.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use cautiously and consult healthcare providers about risks to the fetus and breastfeeding.
• Contraindications: Avoid if allergic to phenytoin or with severe liver problems, or if using delavirdine.

How Do You Store Dilantin?

• Capsules: Store at room temperature, 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep in a tight, light-resistant container away from moisture.
• Oral Suspension (DILANTIN-125): Store between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), protected from light. Do not freeze.
• Injectables (DILANTIN Inflatables): Store at 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C). Keep out of reach of children.

What Drugs Interact with Dilantin?

• Warfarin
• Antibiotics
• Alcohol
• Corticosteroids
• Antacids and Nutritional Supplements
• Antidepressants and Antipsychotics
• Cimetidine, Omeprazole, and Other Stomach Acid Reducers
• Oral Contraceptives
• Antifungal Medications
• Other Antiseizure Drugs

[Note: This list of interactions isn’t complete. Talk to your doctor if you notice any interaction with food, over-the-counter drugs, prescriptions or supplements.]

What Are the Dilantin Alternatives?

• Keppra (levetiracetam)
• Briviact (brivaracetam)
• Carbatrol, Tegretol, and others (carbamazepine)
• Epidiolex (cannabidiol)
• Depakote and Depakote ER (divalproex)
• Neurontin (gabapentin)
• Lamictal (lamotrigine)
• Trileptal (oxcarbazepine)
• Fycompa (perampanel)
• Phenobarbital (phenobarbital)
• Lyrica (pregabalin)
• Topamax (topiramate)
• Valproic acid (valproic acid)

[Note: Your healthcare provider will choose which Dilantin alternative is best for you. Taking or consuming them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]

Dilantin Cost & Coupons

Dilantin, a critical medication for controlling seizures, can be expensive in the U.S., often costing hundreds of dollars each month without insurance. To alleviate this, consider purchasing Dilantin online from Canada through Arctic Meds. We ensure that you receive Dilantin at much lower prices, making your healthcare more affordable. Use the Dilantin coupon code ARCTIC10 to get an additional 10% off your first order. Joining our referral program can further reduce your costs, saving you up to $200 on your prescriptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What foods should you avoid when taking phenytoin?

When taking phenytoin, it’s best to avoid rich or spicy foods as they might upset your stomach. Eating simple meals can help, and it’s often beneficial to take your medication after a meal or snack. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or squash, especially if you experience nausea.

Can Dilantin cause permanent damage?

Dilantin, an anti-epileptic drug produced by Pfizer, has been associated with cerebellar atrophy, a condition that causes permanent damage to the part of the brain that controls motor skills. This can lead to severe problems with movement, memory loss, and other serious issues.

How long can you be on Dilantin?

You should continue taking Dilantin as long as your doctor prescribes it. Dilantin does not cure epilepsy but helps to control it. It is crucial to take your medication daily, even if you feel well. Never stop taking Dilantin or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor.

What happens when Dilantin is stopped?

Suddenly stopping Dilantin can lead to serious complications. Abruptly discontinuing seizure medication can increase the frequency of seizures or trigger continuous seizures that do not stop (known as status epilepticus). 

Our Guarantee

At Arctic Meds, we guarantee that you will find the most competitive prices to buy Dilantin through our platform. As the best Canadian online pharmacy, we are committed to delivering only the highest quality products. Each order is fulfilled through a reputable and licensed Canada pharmacy online, ensuring that every product we ship meets stringent standards of quality and authenticity. Our reliable service ships your medications directly from Canada right to your doorstep. To seamlessly buy Dilantin online from Canada at a low price, contact us.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The information available on the Arctic Meds website is intended to enhance awareness about healthcare products and medical conditions. It is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any prescription or non-prescription medication. Our platform offers access to a broad selection of products that are sourced from various countries, including Canada. We operate with both a licensed partnered pharmacy located in Canada along with reputable dispensing pharmacies located globally. All affiliated fulfillment centers are approved by the regulatory bodies of their respective countries