
Key information summary
Efficacy & effects
This medication is effectively used for various types of seizures in patients with epilepsy. The tablet or capsule form assists in the treatment of tonic-clonic seizures (grand mal), focal seizures (partial seizures), and psychomotor seizures. The injectable form is particularly utilized in status epilepticus and situations where oral administration is difficult, such as during consciousness altering or during and after surgery for seizure control. It is also used for digitalis-induced heart failure when primary treatments are ineffective. This drug effectively controls various seizures and improves symptoms.
Dosage
(Tablets)(Capsules) Phenytoin at a single dose of 100 mg taken 3 times a day, with a maintenance dose ranging from 300 to 400 mg daily in divided doses. The dose may be increased to a maximum of 600 mg per day with this medication. (Injectable) In cases of status epilepticus or when seizure suppression via oral administration is difficult, sodium phenytoin is administered slowly by intravenous injection at a dose of 125 to 250 mg at a rate not exceeding 50 mg/min.
Precautions
This drug is used in the treatment of epilepsy and may affect the mental health of patients who take it by causing suicidal thoughts or behaviors and depression, thus careful monitoring is necessary. When administered as an injection, inflammation or skin changes may occur at the injection site, and in severe cases, tissue necrosis can happen, hence the injection site should be thoroughly checked, and proper injection techniques must be followed. Patients with allergies to this drug or those with severe blood disorders or specific heart conditions should not take it, and drug interactions may occur with certain medications, so consultation with healthcare professionals is essential. Patients with impaired liver or kidney function, hypothyroidism, or diabetes should exercise additional caution when using this medication, and if severe rashes or hypersensitivity reactions occur, they should immediately discontinue use and consult a physician. This drug can cause a variety of side effects, including dizziness, movement disorders, mental confusion, skin rashes, blood abnormalities, and liver function impairment, so regular examinations are necessary. Drowsiness or decreased concentration may occur during use, so it is advisable to avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery. During pregnancy, it should be avoided as it can pose risks to the fetus, and women of childbearing age should consult a physician when planning a pregnancy and use effective contraception. Elderly patients may have reduced physical function and should start with a lower dose, gradually adjusting as necessary, and any dose reduction should be done gradually when discontinuing treatment. Overdose can lead to severe toxicity symptoms requiring immediate emergency care, and it should be stored in a safe place out of reach of children. This medication requires regular health check-ups to detect and manage any abnormal signs through liver, kidney, and blood tests during use.
Side effects
Urticaria, severe swelling (edema), difficulty breathing, chest tightness, cold sweat, and pallor, indicating severe allergic reactions. Severe skin reactions including high fever accompanied by severe rashes, blisters, peeling skin, and pain in mucous membranes of the mouth/eyes (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis). Respiratory anomalies due to shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, cough, and fever. Jaundice and overall malaise manifested as yellowing of the skin or eyes.

