Dilantin is an anticonvulsant drug that controls seizures by slowing certain impulses in the brain.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and use Dilantin exactly as prescribed.

• Swallow capsule whole. Do not break or chew capsules.
• Only chewable Dilantin tablets may be chewed.
• Discard any capsules that have changed color.
• Don’t discontinue use suddenly. This can cause increased seizures.
• Brush and floss teeth regularly. Dilantin can cause swelling in gums.

Talk to your doctor if you become pregnant. Do not discontinue Dilantin without your doctor’s guidance.

Dilantin may cause thoughts of suicide.

Patients of Asian ancestry have a higher risk of developing a skin reaction, and may need blood tests to assess this risk.

Before taking Dilantin, inform your doctor if you have any of the following:

• Liver disease
• Abnormal heart rhythm, slow heartbeats, or AV block
• Diabetes
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Depression or thoughts of suicide
• Porphyria
• Alcoholism or large alcohol intakes

Common side effects of Dilantin include:

• Headache
• Insomnia
• Dizziness, confusion, drowsiness, nervousness
• Loss of balance or coordination, tremors, slurred speech
• Rash

Contact your doctor if you experience these more serious side effects:

• Severe muscle pain
• Bone pain or trouble walking
• Skin rash or bruising
• Sudden weakness, fever, chills, mouth sores
• Liver symptoms – jaundice, dark urine, upper abdominal pain, light-colored stool, loss of appetite

Can I drink alcohol while taking Dilantin?

Alcohol should be avoided while you’re taking Dilantin. Drinking can cause an increase in blood levels of the medication, and might increase your risk of side effects. If you drink alcohol regularly while on Dilantin, the medication may actually become less effective, leading to a higher risk of seizures.

Should I stop taking Dilantin if I become pregnant?

Talk to your doctor immediately. Don’t stop taking Dilantin unless your doctor advises you to. This medication could harm an unborn baby, but having seizures during pregnancy is also dangerous. Your doctor will assess your condition if you become pregnant.