Additional Information

Why is this medication prescribed

Phenytoin is used to treat various types of convulsions and seizures. Phenytoin acts on the brain and nervous system in the treatment of epilepsy.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Other uses for this medicine

Phenytoin is also used to control arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) and to treat migraine headaches and facial nerve pain.

Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.

What other information should I know

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to phenytoin.

Phenytoin capsules and tablets (and different brands of phenytoin) have different effects. Do not change brands of phenytoin without talking to your doctor.

Call your doctor if you continue to have seizures or convulsions while taking this medication.

If you give this drug to a child, observe and keep a record of the child's moods, behavior, attention span, hand-eye coordination, and ability to solve problems and perform tasks requiring thought. Ask the child's teacher to keep a similar record. This information can help the child's doctor determine whether to continue the drug or to change the dose or drug.

Wear identification (Medic Alert) indicating medication use and epilepsy.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

In case of emergency overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.