We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Medicine

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is Phenytoin Sodium?

By Jacquelyn Gilchrist
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 4,902
Share

Phenytoin sodium, often just called phenytoin, is an anticonvulsant medication. It is prescribed for people suffering from seizure disorders, such as epilepsy. In some cases, a doctor may also use it to treat painful nerve conditions or irregular heartbeats.

Anticonvulsant drugs are also sometimes called antiepileptic or antiseizure medications. They typically work by interfering with the electrical impulses in the brain that cause seizures. Anticonvulsants are usually taken on a long-term basis. Although patients may experience a reduction in symptoms, they must continue to take the drug or the symptoms may return. Phenytoin sodium should not be discontinued without a doctor's approval.

This medication is taken orally and is often given in the form of an extended-release capsule. These capsules should never be broken or crushed, but rather the patient must swallow them whole. This precaution helps prevent an accidental overdose, caused when too much of the drug is released at once.

Sometimes, phenytoin sodium may be available in the form of a liquid for patients who have trouble swallowing pills. Before taking the liquid, patients should shake the bottle. They should be careful to measure a precise dose with a medicine cup.

Patients also should avoid consuming alcohol while taking phenytoin sodium. Alcohol may increase the risk of some side effects and may lessen the efficacy of the drug in preventing seizures. Antacids should also be avoided, as they interfere with the absorption of the drug in the body.

Some serious side effects may occur. Patients should seek medical help immediately if they experience fever, hallucinations, or unusual thoughts or behavior. Loss of balance, slurred speech, and tremors may also occur. Other potential risks include jaundice, loss of appetite, and swollen glands.

Patients may consult with their doctors if they experience less serious, but bothersome, side effects. These can include joint pain or headache as well as a mild skin rash accompanied by itching. Insomnia, dizziness, and nervousness may also occur. Some people report mild constipation, vomiting, and nausea as well.

Before taking phenytoin sodium, patients must tell their doctors about all other medications or supplements they are taking. This anticonvulsant may interact with antibiotics, steroid drugs, and antidepressants. Sedatives, sulfa drugs, and estrogen hormone replacements may also preclude one from using it.

Phenytoin sodium may also interact with certain medical conditions. Diabetics may be unable to take it, as it can affect blood glucose levels. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use it, as it can cause birth defects or may harm a nursing infant.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-phenytoin-sodium.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.