phenytoin
Brand names: Phenytoin Sodium
# Overview of Phenytoin Phenytoin is a medication used to prevent and control seizures in people with epilepsy and other seizure disorders. It works by calming the electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures. Doctors may prescribe this drug for patients who have had seizures or who are at risk of having them. The medication comes in different forms, including capsules and liquid, and the dose depends on each person's individual needs and how their body responds to the treatment. While phenytoin can be very helpful, it's important to know some safety information before taking it. This drug can interact with many other medications, so you should always tell your doctor about everything you're taking. Phenytoin is broken down by your liver, and certain other drugs can change how fast or slow this happens, which can make the medication less effective or cause harmful side effects. You should never stop taking phenytoin suddenly without talking to your doctor first, as this could cause serious seizures. Regular blood tests may be needed to make sure you're taking the right dose and that the medication is working safely in your body.
Taking phenytoin with other medications?
Check all your medications at once for potential interactions.
Check Your Medications →Most Reported Side Effects (FAERS)
- DRUG INEFFECTIVE4,433 reports
- CONVULSION3,520 reports
- SEIZURE3,035 reports
- DRUG INTERACTION2,233 reports
- TOXICITY TO VARIOUS AGENTS1,863 reports
- OFF LABEL USE1,640 reports
- FALL1,587 reports
- DIZZINESS1,516 reports
- DRUG HYPERSENSITIVITY1,349 reports
- HEADACHE1,296 reports
Source: FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Voluntary reports do not establish causation.
Check interactions with phenytoin:
SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.