Phenytek (Phenytoin) for Epilepsy

Overview
Phenytek is a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to control generalized tonic-clonic (grand mal) and complex partial-onset seizures. Phenytek is also referred to by its drug name, phenytoin. Phenytoin is also sold under the brand name Dilantin.

Phenytek is an anticonvulsant, or in other words, a drug used to prevent and control seizures. It is believed to work in cases of epilepsy by inhibiting nerve signals in the brain.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Phenytek may be taken either as emergency or maintenance medication. As an emergency medication, Phenytek may be administered intravenously. As a maintenance medication, Phenytek may be initiated with an intravenous loading dose, then taken orally as a capsule or liquid suspension every six to eight hours. In rare circumstances, Phenytek may also be injected intramuscularly.

Do not stop taking Phenytek suddenly. If you decide to stop taking Phenytek, consult your physician for a plan to reduce your dose gradually.

Phenytek should be taken exactly as prescribed by a physician.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Phenytek lists common side effects including drowsiness, dizziness, nervousness, insomnia, constipation, vomiting, nausea, slurred speech, memory problems, rash, and swollen or tender gums. Some side effects go away after a few days or weeks on Phenytek.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Phenytek include suicidal thoughts and behavior, fetal harm, liver damage, low blood cell counts, and increased risk for lymphoma and other cancers.

People with Chinese ancestry may experience some side effects of Phenytek more intensely.

Long-term use of Phenytek may result in the weakening of bones. People who are taking Phenytek long-term should exercise regularly and consider taking calcium and vitamin D supplements. If you take calcium supplements, take them at least two hours before or after taking Phenytek.

Call your doctor if you experience chest pain, irregular heartbeat, tremors, pain in your upper abdomen, dark urine, yellowing skin or eyes, a rash, or signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, and cough while taking Phenytek.

Phenytek may reduce the effectiveness of some forms of birth control, including oral contraceptives and implants. You may need to adopt another form of birth control while using Phenytek.

Rarely, some people experience neurological symptoms including depression or suicidal thoughts while taking Phenytek. Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Phenytek — RxList
https://www.rxlist.com/phenytek-drug/patient-im...

Phenytek — Drugs.com
https://www.drugs.com/mtm/phenytek.html