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Phenytoin vs. Dilaudid

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Phenytoin

(Dilantin)

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Dilaudid

(hydromorphone)

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Summary for Phenytoin

Prescription only

Phenytoin (Dilantin) is an antiepileptic medication used to treat and prevent seizures in adults and children. It comes in a capsule, chewable tablet, and liquid suspension that you take by mouth. The dose depends on your age, weight, and how well your seizures are controlled. Common side effects include trouble with coordination, unpredictable eye movements, and sleepiness. You’ll need regular blood tests to avoid toxicity, which is when the amount of medication in your body is too high and could be dangerous.

Indications for Phenytoin

Pros and Cons for Phenytoin

Pros

  • Available as a capsule, chewable tablet, and liquid suspension
  • Dose can be adjusted based on your response
  • Extended-release capsule can be taken once a day

Cons

  • Requires regular blood tests to check levels and determine the right dose
  • Common side effects include unpredictable eye movements and trouble with coordination
  • Can interact with a lot of other medications

Common Side Effects for Phenytoin

  • Unpredictable eye movements
  • Trouble with coordination
  • Slurred speech
  • Sleepiness
  • Confusion

Warnings for Phenytoin

  • Withdrawal seizures
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • Serious skin and allergic reactions
  • Heart problems
  • Liver problems
  • Lower blood cell count
  • Effects on Vitamin D and bone
  • Harm to unborn baby
  • High blood sugar levels
  • High phenytoin levels

Summary for Dilaudid

Prescription only

Dilaudid (hydromorphone) is an opioid medication that's used to help with pain when non-opioid medications don't provide enough pain relief. Dilaudid (hydromorphone) is available as pills, liquids, and rectal suppositories. The dosage depends on what form of Dilaudid (hydromorphone) you're using. In addition, some forms are immediate-release that help control sudden pain quickly, but others are extended-release for more long-lasting (chronic) pain. The most common side effects include dizziness, sleepiness, and nausea, among others. Dilaudid (hydromorphone) is available as a brand and generic medication.

Indications for Dilaudid

  • Pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid medications

Pros and Cons for Dilaudid

Pros

  • Relieves pain that isn't controlled with non-opioid pain medications
  • Can help with quick, sudden pain or chronic pain (depending on the form of the medication)
  • Available in liquid form and rectal suppositories for people who have trouble swallowing pills
  • Available as a lower-cost generic version

Cons

  • Can commonly cause constipation
  • Risk of dependence and tolerance with long-term use
  • Must slowly lower the dose before stopping if you've been taking for a long time to prevent bothersome side effects and uncontrolled pain
  • A controlled substance, so there are special requirements to get a prescription filled (highly regulated by the federal government because of risk of misuse)

Common Side Effects for Dilaudid

  • Lightheadedness
  • Dizziness
  • Sleepiness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Sweating
  • Flushing
  • Intense happiness (euphoria)
  • Distress
  • Dry mouth
  • Itchy skin

Warnings for Dilaudid

  • Risk of accidental overdose
  • Potential for addiction and misuse
  • Potentially life-threatening slowed breathing (respiratory depression)
  • Harm to newborn babies when taken during pregnancy
  • Low hormone levels
  • Low blood pressure
  • Higher risk of seizures in people with seizure conditions
  • Physical dependence and withdrawal
  • Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
  • Contains sulfites

Prices with our coupons for Phenytoin vs. Dilaudid

Price Card Drug Icon
Phenytoin90 capsules / 100mg
$22.31$48.48
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Hydromorphone30 tablets / 2mg
$14.19$24.81
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