Phenytoin
Phenytoin is an anti seizure drug which has been around for many decades and widely used in medicine. Dilantin is also said to improve mental functioning and increase IQ, memory, and learning.
Phenytoin Facts
| Other names | Phenytoin sodium, Phenytek, Dilantin, Diphenin, Dipheninum, Eptoin, Epanutin |
| Chemical formula | C15H12N2O2 |
| Effects | Reduces seizures. Said to improve cognitive functioning. |
| Prize | 200x100mg $100 |
| Available in | Extended release capsules and injectable forms. |
For individual who have recurrent seizures, phenytoin has to be taken for the rest of their lives. Two other minor conditions where phenytoin is sometimes prescribed are trigeminal neuralgia and abnormal heart rhythms.
Trigeminal neuralgia is a very painful condition which presents with sudden onset of lightening needle/electric shock like pain on the face. The pain is excruciating. In some cases, the individuals respond well to phenytoin. Phenytoin is sometimes given to patients who have abnormal heart rhythms in a hospital setting but now we have safer drugs.
Phenytoin is not a benign drug. When taken for long periods, it does have serious side effects which may include:
- abnormal gaze which may be mistaken for being drunk
- anemia (low blood count)
- thinking of the gums
- teratogenic- meaning that it can cause harm to the fetus when taken by a pregnant female
Individuals who take phenytoin must periodically get the blood levels analyzed to ensure that the drug is not building up in the body.