Phenytoin sodium is a commonly used antiepileptic, also called an anticonvulsant. It works by suppressing the abnormal brain activity seen in seizure by reducing electrical conductance among brain cells by stabilizing the inactive state of voltage-gated sodium channels.
Before taking Phenytoin
If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking phenytoin.
Tell your doctor if you are taking antacids that contain calcium (Maalox, Mylanta, Tums, others).
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to phenytoin, other hydantoin medications such as ethotoin (Peganone) or fosphenytoin (Cerebyx), or any other medications.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, especially if you are in the last few months of your pregnancy, you plan to become pregnant.
Phenytoin side effects:
Nervous system
Nervous system side effects have included headaches, drowsiness, intellectual decline, slurred speech, uncontrollable eye movements.
Respiratory side effects have included short of breath, trouble breathing.
Gastrointestinal
Gastrointestinal side effects have included nausea, vomiting, constipation.
Cardiovascular
Cardiovascular side effects have included bradycardia, arrhythmias, hypotension.
Hepatic
Hepatic side effects have included acute hepatitis, chronic persistent hepatitis, cholestasis and fulminant hepatic failure.
Musculoskeletal
Musculoskeletal side effects have included joint pain.
What other information should I know?
This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor.
