Drug | Injection

Control of seizures (especially status epilepticus), prevention and treatment of seizures during neurosurgery, acute management of epilepsy when oral therapy is not possible

Phenytoin stabilizes neuronal membranes by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels in the brain. This limits repetitive firing and spread of seizure activity.

Administer only by a trained healthcare professional. Given as slow IV injection/infusion with cardiac and blood pressure monitoring; IM use is generally avoided for phenytoin sodium due to tissue irritation. Dose is individualized and may require blood level monitoring.

Low blood pressure, slow heart rate, arrhythmias, dizziness, drowsiness, nystagmus, ataxia, nausea, injection site pain, phlebitis

IV administration can cause severe hypotension and cardiac arrhythmias; must be given slowly with monitoring. Risk of serious skin reactions (SJS/TEN), hypersensitivity, and blood disorders; stop and seek care if rash, fever, sore throat occur. Long-term use may cause gum overgrowth, bone disease, and folate deficiency. Use caution in liver disease; therapeutic drug monitoring may be needed.

Warfarin, oral contraceptives (reduced efficacy), carbamazepine, valproate, phenobarbital, benzodiazepines, corticosteroids, doxycycline, azole antifungals, isoniazid, rifampicin, alcohol (affects levels), many CYP-inducers/inhibitors

Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C), protect from light. Do not freeze. Use only clear solution; follow hospital handling guidelines.

Eptoin Injection 50 mg/ml, Dilantin Injection 50 mg/ml, Phenytoin Injection (generic) 50 mg/ml, Fosolin Injection (fosphenytoin) 75 mg PE/ml, Fosphenytoin Injection (generic)