Dilantin (Phenytoin Sodium)

Do's

• Take Dilantin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. 
• Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. 
• Take tablets by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once a day or in divided doses. You may take it with food if you have an upset stomach. 
• Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. 
• Take long-acting capsules (Dilantin Kapseals) by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once a day or in divided doses. 
• Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. 
• Separate liquid nutritional products at least 1 hour before and 1 hour after your phenytoin dose or as directed by your doctor. 
• Take all doses on time to keep the amount of medicine in your body at a constant level.  
• Remember to use it at the same time(s) each day.  
• Inform your doctor if Dilantin does not seem to work as well in controlling your seizures. 

Don'ts

• Do not use tablets or capsules if discolored. 
• Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Seizures may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. 

The dosage of Dilantin is based on your medical condition, lab tests, and response to treatment. For children, the dosage is also based on weight. 

1. Common Side Effects:
   • Dizziness
   • Drowsiness
   • Headache
   • Nausea
   • Vomiting
   • Constipation
   • Slurred speech
   • Uncontrollable eye movements
   • Difficulty coordinating movements
2. Less Common Side Effects:
   • Confusion
   • Mood changes
   • Gum overgrowth
   • Increased hair growth
   • Skin rash
   • Swollen glands
   • Fever
   • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
3. Serious Side Effects:
   • Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing)
   • Severe skin reactions (toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
   • Liver problems
   • Blood disorders
   • Low blood pressure
   • Abnormal heart rhythm

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Dilantin,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Before taking Dilantin, it is important to be aware of certain warnings and precautions:

1. Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions: Dilantin can cause severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs), such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS). These reactions can be serious and potentially fatal. Dilantin should be discontinued at the first sign of a rash, unless it is clearly not drug-related.
2. Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior: Antiepileptic drugs, including Dilantin, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Patients should be monitored for changes in mood, behavior, or suicidal ideation. It's important to seek medical attention if any concerning symptoms occur.
3. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Dilantin. It's important to seek immediate medical attention if any signs of an allergic reaction occur, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
4. Interactions and Precautions: Dilantin may interact with other medications. It's important to inform a healthcare provider about all medications being taken. Dilantin should be used with caution in patients with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease or high blood pressure.
5. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Dilantin may cause harm to the unborn baby during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with a healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Dilantin may also pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before breastfeeding while taking Dilantin.