phenytoin

Don't stop taking phenytoin (Dilantin) suddenly, as this can lead to a dangerous condition called status epilepticus. This happens when a seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or when multiple seizures occur close together without full recovery in between. If you want to stop taking phenytoin (Dilantin), talk to your neurologist first. They can help create a safe plan to slowly reduce your dose or switch you to a different seizure medication.

Like many other antiseizure medications, phenytoin (Dilantin) can raise the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior as early as one week after starting treatment and can continue as long as you take it. If you or a loved one notice mood changes, worsening depression, or thoughts of self-harm, talk to a healthcare professional right away. Your prescriber will consider the risks and benefits of this medication based on your condition.

In rare cases, phenytoin (Dilantin) can cause severe, life-threatening skin reactions including toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and . Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS). These reactions usually appear within the first month of treatment but can happen later. Stop taking phenytoin (Dilantin) immediately if you develop a rash unless your prescriber confirms it's unrelated. Don't take this medication if you've ever had an allergic reaction to it or to similar medications like carbamazepine. Get medical help if you have rash, swollen lymph nodes, fever, facial swelling, blisters, or skin peeling. DRESS can also damage important organs like your liver, kidneys, or heart, leading to other serious symptoms. Let your prescriber know right away if you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, vomiting, or reduced appetite.

Phenytoin (Dilantin) can slow your heart rate and sometimes cause your heart to stop working (cardiac arrest). If you notice symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or a very slow heartbeat, contact your prescriber right away.

Phenytoin (Dilantin) can cause serious liver damage, including rare cases of liver failure. This can happen on its own or as part of a severe allergic reaction (DRESS). Tell your prescriber if you develop symptoms of liver problems like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), fever, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain.

Although rare, phenytoin (Dilantin) can lower the amount of important blood cells in your body, such as white blood cells, platelets, and red blood cells. In rare cases, these conditions can be life-threatening. Let your prescriber know if you have unusual bruising, infections, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness while taking this medication.

Long-term use of phenytoin (Dilantin) might weaken your bones and raise your risk of osteopenia, osteoporosis, or fractures. This happens because the medication speeds up how your body breaks down vitamin D, which can lead to low vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus levels. Your prescriber might check your bone health with lab tests or scans and recommend treatment if needed. Talk to them about ways to keep your bones strong while taking this medication.

Phenytoin (Dilantin) can cause harm to an unborn baby. Babies exposed to this medication before birth might have a higher risk of birth defects, including cleft lip, heart problems, and growth delays. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your prescriber about the risks and benefits of this medication. If you take phenytoin (Dilantin) while pregnant, consider enrolling in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry. This registry helps researchers study the safety of seizure medications during pregnancy.

phenytoin (Dilantin) might raise your blood sugar levels by affecting how your body releases insulin. If you have diabetes, this could make it harder to manage your blood sugar. Talk to your prescriber if you notice any changes when checking your blood sugar.