What is phenytoin sodium?
phenytoin sodium, often called phenytoin, is an anticonvulsive medicine. It is prescribed for people suffering from seizure disorders such as epilepsy. In some cases, the doctor may also use it to treat painful nerve conditions or irregular heart rhythms.
Anticonvulsive drugs are also sometimes called antiepileptic or anti -anisur drugs. They usually work by disrupting electrical pulses in the brain that cause seizures. Anticonvulsants are usually used in the long term. Although patients may experience a reduction in symptoms, medicines must continue to be used or the symptoms may return. Phenytoin sodium should not be interrupted without the consent of the doctor.
This medicine is used orally and is often administered in the form of a prolonged release capsule. These capsules should never be broken or crushed, but the patient has to swallow them. This preventive measure helps to prevent accidental overdose, caused by too much medicine is repronhed at once.
SometimesPhenytoin sodium may be available in the form of liquid for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills. Before the liquid is taken, patients should shake the bottle. They should be careful to measure the exact dose using a drug cup.
Patients should also avoid alcohol consumption when using sodium phenytoin. Alcohol may increase the risk of some side effects and may reduce the effectiveness of the drug to prevent seizures. Antacides should also be avoided because they disrupt the absorption of the drug in the body.
Some serious side effects may occur. Patients should immediately seek medical attention if they experience fever, hallucinations or unusual thoughts or behavior. There may also be a loss of balance, carefree speech and vibration. Other potential risks include jaundice, loss of appetite and swollen gland.
patients can consult their documentaryS if they experience less serious but unpleasant, side effects. This may include joint pain or headache, as well as a slight skin rash accompanied by itching. There may also be insomnia, dizziness and nervousness. Some people also report mild constipation, vomiting and nausea.
Before accepting a phenytoin sodium, patients must tell their doctors about all other medicines or supplements they use. This anticonvulsant can interact with antibiotics, steroid drugs and antidepressants. Sedatives, sulfa drugs and estrogen hormones can also exclude it in its use.
phenytoin sodium can also interact with certain health conditions. Diabetics may not be able to take it because it can affect blood glucose. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use it because it can cause congenital defects or can damage infants.