Adverse Effects of Prolonged Use of Dilantin
Dilantin (phenytoin sodium) is the brand name for a medication available by prescription only for the treatment of epilepsy and seizure. Effects of prolonged use include constipation, nausea, vomiting and mild agitation. Dilantin is administered orally in tablet form.
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Long Term Usage Effects: Moderate
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Uncomfortable effects of Dilantin may include constipation, dizziness, or headache. Other moderate, long-term effects include nervousness or mild agitation, nausea, vomiting and sleeplessness. Inform your doctor if you experience any of these side effects as a result of Dilantin.
Long Term Usage Effects: Severe
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Occasionally Dilantin is associated with more severe side effects, which require immediate medical attention. Seek emergency assistance if you experience tremors, muscle spasms, an itching or burning skin rash or any difficulty breathing as a result of taking Dilantin, or if you have recurring thoughts of suicide.
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Precaution
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It is important that you take Dilantin exactly as prescribed. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If the time is near the next scheduled dose of Dilantin, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose. Do not double up on this medication, and do not suddenly stop taking Dilantin without first discussing it with your doctor.
Interactions
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Some medications may interact with the effectiveness of Dilantin, or cause the chances of side effects to increase. Tell your doctor if you are taking any stomach acid reducers (such as Pepcid, Zantac or Tagamet), sedatives, antidepressants (such as Prozac), hormone replacements for estrogen, or phenothiazines (such as Thorazine, Compazine or Melalril). Inform your doctor if you are taking disulfaram (such as Antabuse) or methylphenidates (such as Ritalin), antibiotics or phenobarbital. Steroid medications, heart or high blood pressure medications (such as Digitoxin, Lanoxin or Lasix) or breathing medications such as Theo-Dur, Theo-Bid or Elizophyllin may cause Dilantin to be less effective.
Warning
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Dilantin can lower blood sugar, so be sure to inform your doctor if you are diabetic before taking this medication. Take Dilantin with a meal in order to decrease the chances of uncomfortable side effects of nausea and vomiting from occurring. Be aware that children taking Dilantin receive different doses than adults. Discontinuing use of Dilantin may cause an increase in seizure and epilepsy to occur.
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