If you've been prescribed Dilantin, also known as phenytoin, it's crucial to understand how this medication works and how to use it safely. Dilantin is commonly used to control seizures, especially in epilepsy. It helps lower abnormal excitement in the brain to prevent seizures from occurring.
One of the important things to remember is to take Dilantin exactly as your doctor recommends. Changing your dose or stopping suddenly can cause seizures to come back or get worse. It usually takes a few days of consistent dosing for the medicine to reach a steady level in your body.
Dilantin controls seizures by stabilizing electrical activity in your brain. It's effective against different types of seizures, including tonic-clonic and partial seizures. Doctors often prescribe it when other seizure medications aren't suitable or have not worked well.
That said, not everyone should use Dilantin. People with certain heart conditions or allergic reactions to phenytoin should avoid it. Always tell your healthcare provider about any medical problems or other medicines you're taking to avoid interactions.
Taking Dilantin with food can help reduce stomach upset. Monitor yourself for common side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, or coordination problems—these can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. If you notice any rash, unusual bleeding, or swollen gums, let your doctor know right away as these can be signs of serious issues.
Regular check-ups and blood tests are important to make sure Dilantin is working well and not causing harm. Since individual reactions can differ, your healthcare team will tailor your dose to your needs.
Remember, while Dilantin is a powerful medication to keep seizures in check, staying informed and communicating with your doctor makes a big difference. If you have questions or concerns about your treatment, MapleMed Pharmacy is here to provide support and reliable information on managing your medication safely and effectively.
