Dilantin

Dilantin is an anticonvulsant drug that is used to control seizures. It is also prescribed to treat Parkinson's disease. It is available in generic form under the name phenytoin. Dilantin is available in tablet and liquid suspension form. Dilantin is also available together with Phenobarbital, but is only used for grand mal seizure treatment in patients who need both drugs and have previously taken both drugs with suffering any adverse effects. Phenobarbital is also addictive, so many patients do not take the combination drug.

Dilantin side effects include nausea, headache, and joint pain. Major side effects of the drug Dilantin include hallucinations, uncontrollable shaking, and increase in bleeding and bruising. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any major side effects or severe allergic reaction to Dilantin. Some patients also report weight gain when taking Dilantin. Dilantin is a class "D" drug, known to cause problems in pregnancy, so women who are pregnant or become pregnant should not use Dilantin. Women who are nursing should also avoid Dilantin, as it passes into breast milk. Dilantin can lower the effectiveness of birth control pills, so an alternate form of birth control should be used when on Dilantin. Alcohol use should be avoided by patients who take Dilantin. Inform your doctor of any medical conditions you have, especially diabetes or liver disease, and of any other medications you are taking, including common drugs like Tagamet or Ritalin, to avoid dangerous interactions. Some drugs such as antacids, sedatives, and estrogen hormones may even increase Dilantin levels in the blood. Diabetic patients may find that Dilantin lowers their blood sugar levels, so careful monitoring of blood sugar is also required.

Dilantin should be taken exactly as prescribed. Suddenly stopping or decreasing your Dilantin dosage can result in increased risk of seizures, due to the low levels of Dilantin in the bloodstream. Your doctor has prescribed your specific dosage to maintain a normal Dilantin level in your body. Your doctor will also conduct regular blood tests to ensure your Dilantin level stays normal. On the other hand, increasing your dosage may lead to Dilantin toxicity. Symptoms of Dilantin overdose include shaking, fainting, and difficulty breathing. Get immediate medical attention if you believe you have overdosed on Dilantin, as this can be a fatal condition. Dilantin should only be taken under a doctor's care, to ensure that you receive the proper dosage needed to control your seizures.