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Phenytek
Phenytek (generic name: phenytoin) is a prescription medication used to control seizures in people with epilepsy. It belongs to a class of drugs known as anticonvulsants, which work by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. Phenytek is typically used to treat tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures and partial seizures, as well as to prevent seizures following neurosurgery. The extended-release formulation allows for more stable blood levels and may be more convenient for patients requiring long-term seizure control.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Phenytek to start working?
Phenytek begins to control seizures within hours of taking the medication, but it may take several days to achieve the correct blood levels for full seizure control.
Can Phenytek be used for all types of seizures?
Phenytek is mainly used for tonic-clonic and partial seizures. It is not typically used for absence seizures and may even worsen these types of seizures in some patients.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Phenytek?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Phenytek?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Can Phenytek cause birth defects if taken during pregnancy?
Phenytek can increase the risk of birth defects when taken during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor about alternative treatments or necessary precautions.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Phenytek?
It is best to avoid alcohol while taking Phenytek, as it can increase the risk of side effects, including dizziness and phenytoin toxicity, and can also reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
Comprehensive Drug Guide
How Does Phenytek Work?
Phenytek works by stabilizing the sodium channels in brain cells, which helps reduce abnormal electrical activity that leads to seizures. By slowing down the electrical impulses in the brain, Phenytek reduces the likelihood of seizures occurring. This makes it effective for preventing both generalized tonic-clonic seizures and partial seizures.
Common Dosages
- 200 mg extended-release capsules
- 300 mg extended-release capsules
The dose is typically individualized based on the patient's response and blood levels of the medication.
Typical Dosing
- The usual starting dose for adults is 300 mg once daily or divided into 100 mg three times daily.
- Maintenance doses typically range from 300 mg to 400 mg daily.
- Doses may be adjusted based on the patient's blood levels of phenytoin and seizure control.
- Phenytek capsules should be swallowed whole and taken with or without food, but consistency in how it is taken is important to ensure steady blood levels.
Typical Dosing
FDA Approved Indications
- Tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures: Generalized seizures involving loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions.
- Partial seizures: Seizures that occur in one part of the brain and may involve unusual sensations or motor movements.
- Seizure prevention following neurosurgery.
Who Shouldn't Take Phenytek?
- Known hypersensitivity to phenytoin or other hydantoin anticonvulsants.
- Sinus bradycardia, SA block, or AV block without a pacemaker, as phenytoin can slow heart rate.
Advice From The Pharmacist
- Take Phenytek exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not stop taking it suddenly, as this may increase the risk of seizures.
- Phenytek should be taken consistently with or without food, as changes in food intake can affect how the body absorbs the medication.
- Blood tests may be required regularly to monitor phenytoin levels and ensure the medication is working properly without causing toxicity.
- Inform your doctor if you experience any unusual side effects, such as gum overgrowth, vision changes, or excessive tiredness, as these can be signs of phenytoin toxicity.
- Avoid alcohol while taking Phenytek, as it can increase the risk of side effects and affect seizure control.
- Store Phenytek at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Side Effects of Phenytek
Common Side Effects
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Unsteadiness or coordination problems
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Gingival hyperplasia (overgrowth of the gums)
Uncommon/Severe Side Effects
- Toxicity: Symptoms of toxicity include confusion, slurred speech, blurred vision, and severe drowsiness.
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN): Severe skin reactions that can be life-threatening.
- Bone thinning (osteoporosis): Long-term use of phenytoin can lead to bone weakening and fractures.
- Blood disorders: Phenytek may cause low blood counts (e.g., anemia, leukopenia).
Risks and Warnings of Phenytek
- Phenytoin Toxicity: Phenytek has a narrow therapeutic window, meaning blood levels can easily become too high, leading to symptoms of toxicity such as drowsiness, unsteady gait, and confusion. Blood levels should be monitored regularly.
- Severe Skin Reactions: Phenytek may cause serious skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which require immediate medical attention if a rash develops.
- Osteoporosis Risk: Long-term use of Phenytek may increase the risk of bone thinning and fractures. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be recommended for patients on long-term therapy.
- Drug Interactions: Phenytek can interact with many medications, altering their effects or increasing the risk of side effects. Make sure your doctor knows about all the medications and supplements you are taking.
Interactions with Phenytek
Common Drug Interactions
- Oral contraceptives: Phenytek can decrease the effectiveness of hormonal birth control pills, patches, or injections. Use an additional or alternative method of contraception.
- Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): Phenytek may reduce the effectiveness of blood thinners, increasing the risk of blood clots.
- Other anticonvulsants: Phenytek can interact with other seizure medications, such as valproic acid or carbamazepine, potentially altering their effectiveness.
- Alcohol: Consuming alcohol can increase the risk of phenytoin toxicity and reduce the effectiveness of Phenytek.
Alternatives to Phenytek
- Dilantin (phenytoin): Another brand of phenytoin available in different forms, including chewable tablets and oral suspension.
- Keppra (levetiracetam): An anticonvulsant used for a broad range of seizure types, with fewer drug interactions.
- Lamictal (lamotrigine): Another anticonvulsant used for epilepsy and bipolar disorder, with fewer side effects.
- Tegretol (carbamazepine): An anticonvulsant used to treat partial seizures and trigeminal neuralgia.
