Phenytoin


DNX0227.HTM

Phenytoin (By mouth)
Phenytoin (FEN-i-toyn)

Treats different types of seizures (epilepsy). This medicine is an anticonvulsant.

Brand Name(s):Dilantin Kapseals, Dilantin Infatabs, Dilantin-125, Phenytek, Dilantin, Diphen
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to phenytoin or to similar medicines such as Cerebyx®, Mesantoin®, or Peganone®.

How to Use This Medicine:
Capsule, Long Acting Capsule, Chewable Tablet, Liquid

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • You may take this medicine with food if it upsets your stomach. Take this medicine at the same time each day.
  • Swallow the capsule whole. Do not open, crush, or chew it.
  • The chewable tablet may be chewed, swallowed whole, or crushed before swallowing.
  • Shake the oral liquid before each use. Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
  • If you are receiving tube feedings, take phenytoin at least 2 hours before, or 2 hours after a feeding.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the oral liquid.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • There are many other drugs that can interact with phenytoin. Make sure your doctor knows about all other medicines you are using.
  • If you are using an antacid (Maalox® or Mylanta®) take it least 1 hour after you take phenytoin.
  • Birth control pills may not work while you are using phenytoin. To keep from getting pregnant, use another form of birth control such as condoms, a diaphragm, or contraceptive foam or jelly.
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have liver disease, kidney disease, osteoporosis, porphyria, or diabetes.
  • Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor. You may need to slowly decrease your dose before stopping it completely.
  • Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
  • This medicine may raise or lower your blood sugar, or it may cover up symptoms of very low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
  • Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.
  • Brush your teeth, use dental floss, and see a dentist on a regular basis. All of these things can help avoid gum bleeding or enlargement.
  • This medicine may make you drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Fever, sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising.
  • Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in your upper stomach.
  • Severe confusion or unsteadiness, slurred speech.
  • Skin or whites of your eyes turn yellow.
  • Skin rash, or blisters.
  • Uncontrolled eye or body movements.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Constipation.
  • Drowsiness or dizziness.
  • Excess hair growth.
  • Nervousness or trouble sleeping.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.