Generic name: Phenytoin Sodium. Brand name: Dilantin

Class: Antiepileptic, Anticonvulsant, Antiarrhythmic

Indication: Seizures, Cardiac Arrhythmias

Side effects:

• Hematology: aplastic anemia, hematopoietic complications,
• Neuro: ataxia, dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia
• Skin: purpuric dermatitis, Steven-Johnson syndrome.
• GI: gingival hyperplasia, liver damage

Nursing Tips:

• Therapeutic serum level 10-20 mcg/ml
• Do not stop abruptly, to prevent status epilepticus.
• Stop if rash, depressed blood count, enlarged lymph nodes, hypersensitivity reaction, signs of liver damage develop.
• Not for use in pregnancy, it will cause fetal hydantoin syndrome; mental & physical birth defects.
• Phenytoin is occasionally used in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias, those associated with digitalis intoxication
• Continually monitor cardiac rhythm; check BP frequently.
• Dilantin capsules should be taken by mouth, swallowed whole. Do not open or crush medication.
• Patient should take medication with a full glass (8 ounces) of water unless the doctor directs otherwise.
• Dilantin should be used regularly and all doses taken on time to keep the serum level constant.
• Products that contain calcium (e.g., antacids, calcium supplements) and nutritional tube-feeding products may decrease the absorption of phenytoin. Separate liquid nutritional products at least 1 hour before and 1 hour after phenytoin dose.

To your Success!

Rophem 🙂