How to Use Dilantin for Trigeminal Pain

Trigeminal neuralgia is pain originating from the damaged trigeminal nerve of the face. Although not life-threatening or disabling, the stabbing pain is severe and comes in spurts lasting from seconds to minutes. The pain can be triggered by just about anything, including touching a sensitive area on the face, brushing one's teeth or even sitting in a draft. Attacks occur every few minutes and can last for weeks. Treatment consists of the administration of antiepileptic prescription drugs, such as Dilantin, that provide relief in 70 percent of patients, according to test results compiled by John D. Loeser, M.D., of Seattle, Washington. In cases of extreme, persistent pain, surgery may be elected to treat the nerve.

Things You'll Need

• Rx Dilantin
• Food
• Water

Show More

Instructions

Recommended Dosage of Dilantin

• 1

  Take by mouth, with water before or after meals, 100 mg of Dilantin three times daily for one week.

• 2

  After one week of taking Dilantin, increase dosage to four times a day.

• 3

  If there has been no previous treatment with Dilantin, continue with a maintenance dosage of 300-400 mg per day. An increase to 600 mg per day may be needed.

• 4

  Continue on the maintenance dosage until pain relief or side effects occur, which ever comes first. If side effects are severe, consult your prescribing physician.