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Phenytoin - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Phenytoin

Generic Name : Phenytoin
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Phenytoin are provided here.

Pronunciation : fen’ i toe in

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Phenytoin, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y46.2 Therapeutic Classification : Anticonvulsants

Trade Names/Brand Names of Phenytoin

India :

International :


Dilantin, Dilantin, Infatabs, Dilantin, Kapseals, Dilantin-125, Phenytek

Why is Phenytoin Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an anticonvulsant, prescribed for certain types of seizures (eg, status epilepticus).  It decreases abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

When should Phenytoin not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Phenytoin?

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 should Phenytoin 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.

What are the warnings and precautions for Phenytoin?

• 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.

What are the side effects of Phenytoin?

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.

What are the other precautions for Phenytoin?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Phenytoin?

Store it at room temperature (20-25°C).

Schedule : G
Drugs that are to be used only under medical supervision.

Phenytoin: Know More About The Seizure Treating Drug

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