Phenytoin Sodium

Phenytoin Sodium — Uses and Benefits

Phenytoin Sodium is mainly used to treat epilepsy and control certain types of seizures.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Control of tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures
• Control of partial (focal) seizures
• Prevention and treatment of seizures occurring during or after brain surgery
• Emergency control of status epilepticus (given by injection in hospital)

HOW IT WORKS

• It stabilises the electrical activity of nerve cells in the brain
• It slows down overactive nerve signals that cause seizures
• This helps reduce the frequency and severity of fits

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller
• It does not treat absence (petit mal) seizures and may worsen them
• It is not used for anxiety, sleep problems, or mood disorders
• It is not a cure for epilepsy; it only helps control seizures while you take it

How to Use Phenytoin Sodium

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day
• Swallow tablets/capsules with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Take at the same time every day to keep steady levels in the blood
• Can be taken with or after food if it upsets your stomach
• Do not stop suddenly, as this can trigger severe seizures
• Regular blood tests may be needed to check drug levels and organ function

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, tell your doctor so seizure control is not affected

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat and sunlight
• Keep in a dry place, away from moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Phenytoin Sodium — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation
• Unsteady walking (ataxia)
• Swelling or overgrowth of gums

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Skin rash
• Excess hair growth
• Blurred or double vision
• Headache
• Tremors
• Confusion

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling skin
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of infection
• Severe dizziness, slurred speech, or loss of coordination
• Swelling of face, lips, or throat with difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)
• Suicidal thoughts or unusual changes in mood or behaviour

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

Phenytoin Sodium — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to phenytoin or similar anti-epileptic medicines
• Have a history of severe skin reactions to phenytoin
• Have certain heart rhythm problems, unless advised otherwise by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have diabetes or low bone density
• Have a history of blood disorders
• Are of certain genetic backgrounds linked to higher risk of skin reactions (your doctor may recommend a test)

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other anti-epileptic drugs
• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Oral contraceptives (pills may become less effective)
• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medicines
• Antacids and calcium supplements (can affect absorption)
• Alcohol (can increase drowsiness)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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

No, stopping suddenly can cause severe seizures; any change must be done gradually under medical guidance.

Will this medicine affect my gums?

Yes, it can cause gum swelling or overgrowth, so good dental hygiene and regular dental check-ups are recommended.

Can I drive or operate machinery while on this medicine?

• It may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.