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 🙂
