Phenytoin (300mg)

Phenytoin (300mg) — Uses and Benefits

Phenytoin is mainly used to treat and prevent seizures in people with epilepsy.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Control of tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures
• Control of complex partial seizures
• Prevention of seizures during or after brain surgery or head injury
• Long-term management of epilepsy as advised by a neurologist

HOW IT WORKS

• It stabilises the electrical activity of nerve cells in the brain
• It reduces the spread of abnormal electrical signals that cause seizures
• It does not cure epilepsy but helps keep seizures under control

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat headaches
• It is not used for absence (petit mal) seizures
• It is not a first-choice treatment for anxiety or mood disorders
• It should not be used for seizures caused by low blood sugar without treating the underlying cause

How to Use Phenytoin (300mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Take at the same time each day to maintain steady blood levels
• Can be taken with or after food to reduce stomach upset
• Do not stop taking suddenly as this can trigger seizures
• Regular blood tests may be needed to monitor drug levels

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• Try to maintain a consistent routine to avoid missed doses

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture
• Keep the medicine in its original container away from light
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Phenytoin (300mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Unsteady walking
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Excess hair growth
• Skin rash
• Blurred or double vision
• Headache
• Tremors

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe skin rash with blistering or peeling
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• High fever with sore throat or mouth ulcers
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips or throat
• Severe confusion, slurred speech or loss of coordination

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Phenytoin (300mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to phenytoin or other hydantoin medicines
• Have a history of severe skin reactions to phenytoin
• Have certain heart rhythm problems, unless advised by a specialist

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy, as it can affect the baby
• Are breastfeeding
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have diabetes or low blood protein levels
• Have a history of blood disorders
• Are already taking other seizure medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Other anti-epileptic drugs
• Antifungal or antibiotic medicines
• Oral contraceptive pills (may reduce effectiveness)
• Antacids (may reduce absorption)
• Alcohol

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking this medicine once my seizures are controlled?

No, stopping suddenly can cause seizures to return or worsen; any change must be done gradually under medical supervision.

Will this medicine make me sleepy?

It can cause drowsiness, especially when starting treatment, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Does this medicine affect gum health?

• Yes, it can cause gum swelling or bleeding, so regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene are recommended.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.