General Information on Dilantin
Dilantin is used to prevent specific types of seizures called complex partial seizures and tonic-clonic seizures. The drug is also used to treat as well as prevent seizures that that may occur after or during brain surgery.
Phenytoin, the main active ingredient in the drug, belongs to a class of medicines known as anticonvulsants. It stabilizes the inactive state of voltage gated sodium channels, which reduces electrical conductance in and between brain cells. This action of Dilantin helps suppress abnormal activity in the brain, which is common in seizures.
Dilantin is available in the form of a tablet ((Dilantin Infatabs), an extended release capsule (Dilantin Kapseals), and an oral suspension (Dilantin-125). It is supplied in different strengths and forms such as: 50mg chewable tablets, oral suspension (125mg in 5mL), and 30mg and 100mg extended release capsules. The drug is a prescription medication, so you must consult a doctor before you buy Dilantin in any form.
Side effects of Dilantin
Dilantin may cause mild to severe side effects in some people. Constipation, itching, nervousness, mild skin rashes, dizziness, nausea, sleeping problems, headaches, joint pain, or vomiting are some of the common side effects associated with the drug.
Dilantin may also cause severe side effects in some people. Sore throat, easy bruising/bleeding, tender or swollen gums, fever, hallucinations, fever, headache with severe blistering, or unusual behavior or thoughts are some of the severe side effects associated with the drug.
Some people may also experience severe side effects such as tremors, peeling of the skin, confusion, slurred speech, loss of coordination, extreme thirst or hunger, restlessness, abnormal muscle movements in your jaw, tongue, neck or eyes, infrequent urination, dark urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, loss of appetite, or clay colored stools.
In rare cases, Dilantin may cause allergic reactions such as swelling of the tongue, face, throat or lips, difficulty breathing, or hives. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any severe side effects or allergic reactions after taking a dose of Dilantin. If you experience an allergic reaction, you cannot buy Dilantin for treating your condition.
You should remember that your doctor has recommended Dilantin for your treatment because he/she is of the opinion that the benefits provided by the drug are far greater than its side effects.
Dosage of Dilantin
The Dilantin dosage depends on the form of medication used, other medical conditions a patient has, his/her age and weight, other drugs he/she is using, and the amount of Dilantin in blood that is determined by blood tests.
The starting adult dose for different forms of Dilantin are:
- Dilantin Infatabs- Two 100mg tablets three times a day
- Dilantin Kapseals– Three 100mg capsules daily or one 300mg capsule daily
- Dilantin-125 – 5 mL, which is equivalent to 125mg three times a day or one teaspoon of the drug.
The blood tests to determine Dilantin levels are conducted 5 -7 days into the treatment. After analyzing the blood tests, your doctor may increase the dosage. The starting dose of Dilantin for children is primarily based on their weight. The recommended initial dose for children is 5mg/kg of weight per day. The dosage may be increased after analyzing Dilantin levels in the blood after 5-7 days.
