Phenytoin is employed to avoid and get a grip on seizures (also known as an anticonvulsant or antiepileptic drug). It works by reducing the spread of seizure activity in mental performance.
OTHER USES: This part contains uses of this drug which are not detailed in the approved labeling that is professional the drug but that may be prescribed by the health care professional. Utilize this medication for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been therefore prescribed by the medical care expert.
This drug may be used to also treat certain forms of irregular heartbeats.
Read the drugs Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking phenytoin and each time you get a refill. If you have any relevant concerns, pose a question to your medical practitioner or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth frequently as soon as a day or in divided doses as directed by your doctor. You may take it with food if stomach upset occurs. Just take this medicine with a glass that is full8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise.
Swallow the capsules whole. Do not use the capsules if discolored.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. It is important to take all doses on time to keep the amount of medicine in your body at a level that is constant. Remember to make use of it during the same time(s) each day. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Products containing calcium (age.g., antacids, calcium supplements) and nutritional tube-feeding (enteral) products may decrease the absorption of phenytoin. Do not take these products at the same time as your phenytoin dosage. Separate fluid nutritional products at least 1 hour before and 1 hour after your phenytoin dose, or as directed by the doctor.
Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your medical professional. Seizures may become worse whenever medication is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
Inform your physician if your problem does not enhance or worsens.
Headache, sickness, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, feeling of spinning, drowsiness, trouble resting, or nervousness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Phenytoin might cause bleeding and swelling for the gums. Massage your gums and brush and floss your teeth frequently to minimize this dilemma. See your dentist regularly.
Remember that your particular doctor has recommended this medicine because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have adverse that is serious.
Tell your doctor straight away if some of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: unusual attention movements, loss of coordination, slurred message, confusion, muscle twitching, double or blurred vision, tingling of the hands/feet, facial changes (e.g., distended lips, butterfly-shaped rash around the nose/cheeks), excessive hair development, increased thirst or urination, unusual tiredness, bone or pain, easily broken bones.
A small amount of individuals who simply take anticonvulsants for any condition (such as seizure, manic depression, pain) may experience depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, or other mental/mood issues. Tell your doctor right away if you or your family/caregiver notice any changes that are unusual/sudden your mood, thoughts, or behavior including signs of depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, thoughts about harming your self.
For males, in the very event that is unlikely have an agonizing or extended erection lasting 4 or more of their time, stop making use of this drug and seek immediate medical assistance, or permanent problems could take place.
Get medical help immediately if some of these rare but very severe adverse results occur: uncontrolled muscle movements, muscle weakness/pain, swollen glands (lymph nodes), stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, yellowing eyes or epidermis, dark urine, easy bruising/bleeding, signs of infection (e.g., persistent sore throat or fever), chest discomfort, trouble breathing, irregular heartbeat.
a severe reaction that is allergic this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, high temperature, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, difficulty breathing.
This isn't a complete list of possible adverse effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Phone your medical professional for medical advice about negative effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your medical professional for medical advice about adverse effects. You may report effects that are side Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Before taking phenytoin, tell your medical professional or pharmacist if you have any other allergies if you are allergic to it; or to other anti-seizure medications (e.g., carbamazepine, ethotoin, phenobarbital, ethosuximide, trimethadione); or. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other dilemmas. Speak to your pharmacist for additional information.
Before using this medicine, tell your physician or pharmacist your medical history, specially of: alcohol use, specific bloodstream conditions (porphyria), diabetes, liver disease, lupus, folate or vitamin B-12 deficiency (megaloblastic anemia).
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness you can perform such activities safely until you are sure. Limit alcoholic beverages. Alcohol may additionally affect your bloodstream levels of this drug.
Tell your doctor you are employing phenytoin prior to surgery or any procedure which makes you unable to go on it by mouth.
If you have diabetes, this drug may increase your blood sugar levels. Check your blood (or urine) glucose level frequently, as directed by your doctor. Promptly report any abnormal results as directed. Your medicine, fitness plan, or diet might need to be adjusted.
Vitamin D supplements may be necessary to avoid weakening associated with bones (osteomalacia). Discuss this along with your doctor.
During maternity, this medication should be utilized only if clearly needed. It might damage an baby that is unborn. However, since untreated seizures are a condition that is serious can harm both a pregnant woman and her developing fetus, do perhaps not stop using this medication unless directed by the physician. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, immediately talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy. Since birth control pills, patches, implants, and injections may not work if taken with this specific medicine (see also Drug Interactions section), discuss reliable forms of birth control with your medical practitioner.
Phenytoin passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Airmail: 2-3 weeks, EMS: 3-8 business days.