How do you control phenytoin toxicity?

Treatment / Management Activated charcoal reliably binds phenytoin and prevents absorption. In acute ingestions, one dose of activated charcoal may be of benefit especially in large acute overdoses as phenytoin slows GI motility and absorption is delayed.

Which conditions may occur as a result of an overdose of phenytoin Dilantin?

Seizures. Tremor (uncontrollable, repeated shaking of the arms or legs) Sleepiness. Slow or slurred speech.

Is phenytoin toxicity fatal?

Phenytoin toxicity is rarely fatal, but can cause neurologic symptoms ranging from nystagmus to ataxia to coma.

How long does Dilantin stay in your system?

The plasma half-life in man after oral administration of phenytoin averages 22 hours, with a range of 7 to 42 hours. Steady-state therapeutic levels are achieved at least 7 to 10 days (5–7 half- lives) after initiation of therapy with recommended doses of 300 mg/day.

How do I lower my Dilantin levels?

Carbamazepine, phenobarbital, valproic acid, sodium valproate can either increase or decrease phenytoin levels. Lamotrigine, valproic acid, topiramate, zonisamide and levetiracetam can all have their effect reduced by phenytoin.

What are the major side effects of Dilantin?

Headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, feeling of spinning, drowsiness, trouble sleeping, or nervousness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Phenytoin may cause swelling and bleeding of the gums.

What happens if you stop taking Dilantin?

Stopping DILANTIN suddenly can cause serious problems. Stopping a seizure medicine suddenly can cause you to have seizures more often or seizures that will not stop (status epilepticus). Like other antiepileptic drugs, DILANTIN may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in a very small number of people, about 1 in 500.

When should you not give phenytoin?

3. Who can and cannot take phenytoin

have ever had an allergic reaction to phenytoin or other medicines in the past.
have liver or kidney problems.
have a blood disorder called porphyria.
cannot have alcohol – phenytoin liquid contains a small amount of alcohol.
have had a rash caused by phenytoin in the past.

What to do if you think you have Dilantin toxicity?

People who presume to have Dilantin toxicity must contact their healthcare provider immediately to alleviate the symptoms and treat the condition. The symptoms of Dilantin toxicity can be subsided easily by reducing the daily doses of Dilantin.

What kind of Medicine is Dilantin used for?

Dilantin is the most common and frequently used drug for treatment of epileptic seizures. It is a trade name for the generic drug phenytoin. This medicine is also used to prevent seizure episodes that may occur after brain surgery. Epilepsy is a common chronic neurological disease.

Is it safe to take Dilantin after surgery?

Dilantin is the brand name of a prescription drug phenytoin which is widely used to treat episodes of seizures in people after brain surgery or epilepsy. Just like other medications, Dilantin is also known to cause severe toxicity in people. It is essential to know the signs and symptoms of Dilantin toxicity and ways to treat it.

What happens if you overdose on Dilantin or phenytoin?

Dilantin can be harmful in large amounts. Dilantin is the brand name of phenytoin. The symptoms of a Dilantin overdose vary. They may include: Seek medical help right away.