What Is Dilantin Prescribed for?

Each year, thousands of Americans are prescribed drugs to help treat and control their epilepsy. Many people suffer from this condition at varying degrees, which means that the dozens of medications used to treat epilepsy will have a different effect on everyone; what works for one person may not work for another. While Dilantin is an extremely effective drug when it comes to controlling seizures, only your doctor will know if it is the right medication for you. However, if he is considering incorporating Dilantin as part of your treatment plan, you should make yourself aware of its possible side effects and interactions first.

Purpose

• Dilantin is an anti-epileptic drug that helps control seizures by slowing down the impulses in the brain that causes them. It may not work for all epileptics; however for those it does work for, it is important to continue taking the medication even when there is no presence of seizures or you feel fine. Decreasing your dosage or stopping the medication completely can increase your seizure activity.

Dosage

• Dilantin comes in three forms; chewable tablets, suspension liquid and time released capsules. It should always be taken as directed by your doctor. The liquid should be shaken slightly before measured. To ensure the proper dosage is received, a measuring spoon or marked cup should be used. The chewable tablets can be chewed, crushed or swallowed whole. The time released capsules must be swallowed whole only; the medicine in them is designed to be released slowly in the body and if broken apart or crushed, too much medication will be received too quickly. If you miss a dose of Dilantin, skip the missed dose and take the next regularly scheduled dose. Never take two doses at once. An overdose of Dilantin can be fatal; symptoms of a Dilantin overdose include slurred speech, fainting, nausea, shallow breathing, twitching eye movement, loss of balance and muscle stiffness or weakness. In the event of an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Side Effects

• As with any other medication, there are side effects that accompany Dilantin. Some of the more common side effects include dizziness, nervousness, headache, mild skin rash, itching, insomnia and joint pain. The more severe side effects include hallucinations, swollen or tender gums, bruising easily, tremors and confusion. If you suffer an allergic reaction, the symptoms will include difficulty breathing, hives and swollen lips, tongue, throat and face.

Drug Interaction

• There are certain drugs that can either increase the levels of Dilantin or decrease its effectiveness. There are also drugs that Dialntin may alter the effectiveness of. Drugs that may increase the levels of Dilantin include stomach acid reducers such as Tegretol and Zantac, sedatives such as Valium, antidepressants like Prozac and other drugs such as Thorzine, drugs for ADD such as Ritalin and Concerta, and Septra. Drugs that reduce the effectiveness of Dilantin include Tegretol, Carbatrol and Moban. Various drugs whose effectiveness may be altered by Dilantin include Depakene, Depakote, steroid medications like Prednisone and antibiotics such as rifampin and doxycyclin.

Considerations

• Drinking alcohol while taking Dilantin can not only increase the side effects of the medication, but may also increase your risk of having a seizure. Taking antacids may hinder the body's ability to absorb the Dilantin properly. Some of the side effects may also impair your ability to think clearly or react quickly. Because of this, you should use caution when while driving or performing dangerous activities. Finally, Dilantin increases your risk of developing gum disease so you should take extra care when flossing and brushing.