|
Generic Name : Phenytoin
Pronunciation : fen’ i toe in
Trade Name(s):
India- Dilantin, Epicent, Epileptin, Episol, Epitab, Epsolin, Eptoin, Fentoin-Er, Gentoin, M-Toin, Neptoin, Nofite, Nofite Jr, Nutoin, Phalin, Phenytoin, Phenyto-S, Phetoin Pna, Polytoin, Stoin, Stoin Tab, Toinex, Xetoin.
International- Dilantin, Dilantin, Infatabs, Dilantin, Kapseals, Dilantin-125, Phenytek.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) :
This medication is an anticonvulsant, prescribed for certain types of seizures (eg, status epilepticus).
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications):
Hypersensitivity.
Category D : There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.
When it is to be taken :
Adult: PO- Initial: 3-4 mg/kg/day as single dose or in divided doses. Maintenance: 200-500 mg/day.
IV- As adjunct with a benzodiazepine: 10-15 mg/kg. Maintenance: 100 mg 6-8 hourly.
How it should be taken :
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, capsule and suspension to take by mouth, with food.
It comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein.
Special Instruction :
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of heart problems, low blood pressure, blood disease porphyria, liver disease, sugar, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* It may cause dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery and get up slowly from bed while taking this medication.
* Avoid alcohol consumption.
* It may develop suicidal thoughts in teenagers, watch them carefully.
* It may raise blood sugar level; monitor sugar level regularly.
Side Effects :
Central Nervous System -
Night blindness, incoordination, slurred speech, decreased coordination, mental confusion, dizziness, sleeplessness and tremor.
Gastrointestinal -
Nausea, vomiting, constipation, toxic hepatitis, and liver damage.
Blood -
Decrease in white blood cells and platelets.
Skin -
Skin damage, rash and itching.
Other Precautions :
* Avoid excess dosage.
Storage Conditions :
Store it at room temperature (20-25°C).
|
