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Dilantin Uses

Dilantin, also known generically as phenytoin, is the most common medication for seizures in the United States according to Epilepsy.com. It is relatively low in cost and comes in a variety of forms such as capsules, tablets and solutions. In addition to its use in the treatment of epilepsy, Dilantin is often prescribed for a variety of other conditions.

  1. Epilepsy

    • Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that is characterized by seizures caused by abnormal neuronal brain activity. It is estimated the disease affects close to 50 million people worldwide. Epilepsy tends to occur in young children and in adults over age 65. Dilantin works by preventing the brain cells from firing in an uncontrolled surge, thereby stopping the seizure as it is starting.

    Trigeminal Neuralgia

    • The trigeminal nerve is the nerve which carries signals from your face to your brain. Trigenminal neuralgia occurs when any type of stimulation to the face, even a simple touch, causes extreme pain. The condition is more common in women than in men and also more common in individuals over the age of 50. A common cause of the condition is pressure from a blood vessel. In some cases, a tumor can cause trigeminal neuralgia. Dilantin is sometimes prescribed to block pain in cases of trigeminal neuralgia.

    Diabetic Neuropathy

    • Individuals with diabetes often experience a condition known as diabetic neuroopathy, caused by a weakening of the walls of the capillaries that supply blood to the nerves. These injured nerves can cause pain and numbness in areas such as the feet, legs, hands and even the heart. Dilantin as one of many medications that may be prescribed for pain management in those suffering from this condition.

    Fabry's Disease

    • Fabry's disease is a genetic disorder which has been linked to the X chromosome; it affects an individual's metabolism. Women who suffer from this disorder may only experience mild symptoms, whereas men will experience a rash as well as a fever and pain in the arms and legs. Dilantin is sometimes prescribed to manage the pain in cases of Fabry's disease.

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