৳ 1/unit
Pack: ৳ 1
৳ 1/unit
Pack: ৳ 1
At a glance
Phenytoin is an antiepileptic medication used for the treatment and prevention of epilepsy (seizures). It controls seizures by decreasing the abnormal and excessive activity of nerve cells in the brain.
Indications
- Epilepsy/Seizures (tonic-clonic and complex partial)
- Status epilepticus
- Antiarrhythmic
Pharmacology
Phenytoin stabilizes neuronal membranes and decreases seizure activity by modulating sodium ion flux across cell membranes in the motor cortex. It extends the effective refractory period and suppresses ventricular pacemaker automaticity, demonstrating antiarrhythmic properties.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Epilepsy: Initially 3-4 mg/kg/day (single or divided doses); alternatively 150-300 mg/day, gradually increased to 600 mg/day if needed; Maintenance: 200-500 mg/day
Pediatric Dose (Oral):
- Neonates (<28 days): 5 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses
- 6 months-16 years: 5 mg/kg/day in 2-3 divided doses
- Maintenance (age-based): 6 months-4 years: 8-10 mg/kg/day; 4-7 years: 7.5-9 mg/kg/day; 7-10 years: 7-8 mg/kg/day; 10-16 years: 6-7 mg/kg/day
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Skin rash
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Slurred speech
- Vertigo
- Confusion
- Nervousness
- Constipation
- Tremor
- Altered walking
- Gum hypertrophy
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Unsafe during pregnancy; definite evidence of risk to the developing baby; doctor may prescribe in life-threatening situations if benefits outweigh risks.
Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- May affect driving ability; do not drive if drowsy or dizzy
- Do not stop suddenly (may increase seizure frequency)
- May cause gum hypertrophy; maintain oral/dental hygiene
- May increase blood sugar levels; inform doctor if taking diabetes medications
- Do not change the brand of the medicine
- Unsafe during pregnancy
Overdose effects
Overdose: Nystagmus, ataxia, diplopia, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, coma, hypotension, respiratory depression. Treatment: Supportive; gastric lavage; activated charcoal; phenytoin is not removed by dialysis.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place; keep out of reach of children.