Dilantin (Phenytoin) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 3, 2012

Dilantin

Antacids »

What are antacids, and how do they work?

Antacids are a class of drugs used to treat conditions caused by the acid that is produced by the stomach. The stomach naturally secretes an acid called hydrochloric acid that helps to break down proteins. This acid causes the contents of the stomach to be acidic in nature, with a pH level of 2 or 3. (pH levels are a measure of acidity in the stomach: the lower the number, the greater the acidity.) The stomach, duodenum, and esophagus are protected from acid by several protective mechanisms. When there is too much acid or protective mechanisms are inadequate, the lining of the stomach, duodenum or esophagus may become damaged by the acid, giving rise to various gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn (due to gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD), and other gastro-esophageal symptoms.

Antacids reduce acidity by neutralizing (counteracting) acid, reducing the acidity in the stomac...

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Dilantin User Reviews >>

Dilantin

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Dilantin®
(phenytoin sodium) 100 mg Extended Oral Capsule

DRUG DESCRIPTION

Phenytoin sodium is an antiepileptic drug. Phenytoin sodium is related to the barbiturates in chemical structure, but has a five-membered ring. The chemical name is sodium 5,5-diphenyl-2, 4-imidazolidinedione, having the following structural formula:

Dilantin (Phenytoin Sodium) structural formula illustration

Each Dilantin (phenytoin) — 100 mg Extended Oral Capsule—contains 100 mg phenytoin sodium. Also contains lactose monohydrate, NF; confectioner's sugar, NF; talc, USP; and magnesium stearate, NF. The capsule body contains titanium dioxide, USP and gelatin, NF. The capsule cap contains FD&C red No. 28; FD&C yellow No. 6; and gelatin NF. Product in vivo performance is characterized by a slow and extended rate of absorption with peak blood concentrations expected in 4 to 12 hours as contrasted to Prompt Phenytoin Sodium Capsules, USP with a rapid rate of absorption with peak blood concentration expected in 1% to 3 hours.

What are the possible side effects of phenytoin?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

swollen glands, easy bruising or bleeding;,...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Dilantin »

What are the precautions when taking phenytoin (Dilantin)?

Before taking phenytoin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other anti-seizure medications (e.g., ethotoin, phenobarbital, ethosuximide, trimethadione); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: alcohol use, certain blood conditions (porphyria), diabetes, liver disease, lupus, folate or vitamin B-12 deficiency (megaloblastic anemia).

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit...

Read All Potential Precautions of Dilantin »

Last reviewed on RxList: 12/2/2010
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.