What is this medication for?
Phenytoin belongs to a class of medications called antiepiletics. It is used for the management and prevention of certain types of seizures. It works on the brain to reduce the number and severity of seizures.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Prompt Phenytoin Sodium by Ivax Pharmaceuticals is no longer being manufactured for sale in the USA.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended dose of phenytoin varies according to individual needs. The usual adult dose is 300 mg to 400 mg daily taken by mouth in divided doses or a single dose. An increase to 600 mg taken in divided doses may be needed in some cases. The children's dose is based on age and body weight. The level of phenytoin in your blood can be checked through laboratory testing. This test helps your doctor determine the dose of phenytoin that best suits you.
Phenytoin should be taken with or after meals.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
This medication is available under multiple brand names and/or in several different forms. Any specific brand name of this medication may not be available in all of the forms listed here. The forms available for the specific brand you have searched are listed under "What form(s) does this medication come in?"
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not take phenytoin if you:
- are allergic to hydrantoins
- are allergic to phenytoin or any ingredients of the medication