Generic Dilantin [Phenytoin] Information
Drug Name
Dilantin (Phenytoin)
Generic Dilantin Uses
Although it has been used in many conditions, generic Dilantin - phenytoin's only approved use is as an anti-seizure medication (anticonvulsant), especially to prevent tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures and complex partial seizures (psychomotor seizures). It may be used alone or with phenobarbital or other anticonvulsants.
How is Generic Dilantin Taken
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release capsule. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time. Do not use any
generic Dilantin - Phenytoin capsule or tablet that has changed colors. Call your doctor for a new prescription.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. You may also need a blood test when switching from one form of phenytoin to another. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
If you are taking
generic Dilantin to
treat seizures, keep taking the medication even if you feel fine. You may have an increase in seizures if you stop taking generic Dilantin. Follow your doctors instructions.
Do not change your dose of generic Dilantin - Phenytoin without your doctors advice. Tell your doctor if the medication does not seem to work as well in treating your condition.
Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking generic Dilantin, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking a
seizure medication. Store generic Dilantin at room temperature away from moisture, light, and heat.
Generic Dilantin Drug Class and Mechanism
Generic Dilantin - Phenytoin is an oral and injectable anti-seizure medication first synthesized in 1908. Phenytoin was originally approved by the FDA in 1939.
Generic Dilantin Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Generic Dilantin Storage
Tablets, capsules, and suspension should be kept at room temperature, 15-30?C (59-86?F).
Warnings/Precautions
Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of generic Dilantin - Phenytoin, and can also increase your risk of seizure. Avoid taking antacids at the same time you take generic Dilantin. Antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb the medication. Generic Dilantin can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Brush and floss your teeth regularly to avoid gum disease that may be caused by taking generic Dilantin.
Generic Dilantin Possible Side Effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
- swollen glands
- fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash
- confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior
- slurred speech, loss of balance or coordination
- restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck
- tremor (uncontrolled shaking)
- extreme thirst or hunger, urinating more than usual
- nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- easy bruising or bleeding
- >swollen or tender gums
- changes in the shape of your face or lips.
Less serious side effects may be more likely to occur, such as:
- mild skin rash or itching
- dizziness, nervousness, sleep problems (insomnia)
- twitching
- nausea, vomiting, constipation
- headache
- joint pain.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
