Dilantin Precautions

Epilepsy is a disorder of the nervous system that causes someone to have seizures. Epilepsy is generally diagnosed after an individual has two seizures that cannot be connected to any other medical cause. In these cases, medications to control and suppress seizure activity are generally prescribed. One such medication commonly used is Dilantin. Like any medication, Dilantin has very positive effects; however, there are also many precautions that accompany its use.

Dilantin

• Dilantin's generic name is phenytoin. Dilantin works in the brain to slow down impulses that lead to seizures. It is also known as an anticonvulsant. Dilantin does not work for all types of seizures and will only be prescribed by a physician in instances where it is deemed appropriate to the case at hand.

Common Side Effects

• Dilantin can lead to many side effects, or conditions that were not previously present in an individual before taking the medication. The most common side effects include confusion, difficulty with muscle coordination and slurred speech. An individual may also experience unusual eye movements as well as dizziness, insomnia, twiching, headaches, gastrointestinal issues and excessive body and facial hair.

More Severe Side Effects

• More severe side effects with Dilantin are also possible. In some instances the individual may experience swollen lymph nodes, worsening of seizures, unusual bleeding or bruising, signs of liver damage and unusual feelings such as tingling or numbness. In some rare cases, unusual thought patterns and suicidal tendencies may occur as well.

DIlantin and Pregnancy

• A woman who becomes pregnant while taking Dilantin may be more susceptible to seizures due to the pregnancy. Dilantin may also have serious effects on the unborn fetus to include congenital malformations such as a cleft palate, cardiac defects and growth and physical deformities. Some malignancies, or cancers, may also occur in the baby such as neuroblastoma.