Dilantin is an anti-epileptic drug, also called an anticonvulsant. It works by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause seizures. Dilantin is used to control seizures. It is used to treat seizures, to prevent post-traumatic epilepsy,ventricular arrhythmias, some forms of Meniere's syndrome. Your doctor will determine if it is the right medication for you.

If you are taking Dilantin to prevent seizures, keep taking the medication even if you feel fine. You may have an increase in seizures if you stop taking it. Do not change your dose of Dilantin without your doctor's advice. Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release capsule. Shake the Dilantin oral suspension well just before you measure a dose. The prescribed dose is 5 mg per kilo in adults and 4-7 mg per kilo in children. Correct the intake of the drug with your doctor if you are elderly patient, have diabetes and kidney or liver illness.

Avoid using the medicine if you have liver or kidney illness, porphyria, pregnant. Patients of Asian ancestry may have a higher risk of developing a rare but serious skin reaction to Dilantin. It may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Avoid using the drug with antacids.

Be careful if you have liver or kidney illness, leukocytopenia, heart problems, diabetes, emaciation, pregnant, porphyria, also if you cure with isoniazid, teturamom or aspirin.

The drug may cause giddiness, confusion, tremble, ataxy, nystagmus, sickness, retching, problems with skin, allergy, diarrhea, anemia, display of diabetes, hyperplasia, problems with bones, also you have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Tell your doctor about all medications you use. Drugs that can increase Dilantin levels in your blood include: stomach acid reducers, certain sedatives, antidepressants, estrogen hormone replacement, chlorpromazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine, methylphenidate and sulfa drugs. Medicines that can make Dilantin less effective in controlling seizures include carbamazepine, sucralfate and molindone. Other drugs that can interact with Dilantin include: phenobarbital, valproic acid or divalproex sodium, steroid medicines, antidepressants, some antibiotics such as rifampin, digoxin and theophylline.

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. Skip the missed dose if it is time for your next scheduled dose. Don't take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Call emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include twitching eye movements, slurred speech, loss of balance, tremor, muscle stiffness or weakness, nausea, vomiting, feeling light-headed, fainting, and slow or shallow breathing. Blood levels of Dilantin over 20 mg/l in children may lead to acute toxicity.

Store your medicines at room temperature between between 15-30 C (59-86 F). Store away from moisture and light.

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