About phenytoin sodium
Hydantoin anticonvulsant
Used for
- Treatment of status epilepticus and other severe seizures
- Prevention of seizures during or after neurosurgery
Usual adult dose
Status epilepticus: IV loading dose 15–20 mg/kg, given slowly with heart monitoring; further dosing is individualized.
Usual dose in children
Status epilepticus: IV loading dose 15–20 mg/kg, given slowly with heart monitoring; further dosing is individualized.
Common side effects
- Low blood pressure or abnormal heart rhythm
- Drowsiness, dizziness, or unsteady movement
- Confusion or slurred speech
- Injection-site pain or tissue injury
Important warnings
- IV use requires slow administration and continuous heart and blood-pressure monitoring.
- Extravasation can cause serious tissue injury and discoloration.
- Do not stop long-term treatment suddenly; seizures may worsen.
- Blood levels and liver, blood counts, and treatment response may need monitoring.
Pregnancy
Can harm the developing baby, including birth defects; seizure treatment needs careful specialist management.
Breastfeeding
Passes into breast milk; breastfeeding is often possible, with monitoring for infant drowsiness or poor feeding.
Interactions
- Many medicines alter phenytoin levels; examples include valproate and some antibiotics.
- Phenytoin can reduce effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives and many other medicines.
- Alcohol and sedatives may increase drowsiness or impaired coordination.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.