Phenytoin (Dilantin)
$0.48
Dilantin (Phenytoin) prevents and controls seizures in epilepsy by calming excessive electrical activity in the brain.
Drug Information
5 reviews for Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Dilantin contains Phenytoin.
Phenytoin is a long-established medicine for epilepsy. It prevents several types of seizures and is sometimes used in emergencies in hospital.
What is it used for?
- Tonic-clonic (grand mal) and focal seizures
- Preventing seizures after brain surgery or head injury
How does it work?
Phenytoin slows down the rapid firing of nerve cells in the brain by blocking sodium channels. This stops seizure activity from spreading.
This information is written in simple words to help you understand this product. It does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Read these points before you start. If any of them apply to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist first.
- Do not stop taking it suddenly, even if you feel well. This can bring on seizures. Your doctor will lower the dose slowly if you need to stop.
- A small number of people taking seizure medicines have thoughts of self-harm. Tell your doctor straight away if you notice changes in your mood.
- It can make you sleepy or dizzy. Do not drive until you know how it affects you, and follow the driving rules for epilepsy in your country.
- Alcohol can make drowsiness worse and may make seizures more likely.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some seizure medicines can harm an unborn baby, but stopping suddenly can also be dangerous.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems.
- The right dose is very individual. Small dose changes can cause big changes in blood level. You will need blood tests.
- Phenytoin interacts with many medicines, including warfarin, contraceptive pills (which may stop working), some antibiotics and other seizure medicines.
- People of Asian descent with a gene called HLA-B*1502 are at higher risk of a severe skin reaction. Your doctor may test for this.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every other medicine, vitamin or herbal product you use.
- Keep this product out of the reach and sight of children.
Like all medicines, Dilantin can cause side effects, but not everybody gets them.
Common side effects
- Feeling sleepy or tired
- Dizziness or feeling unsteady
- Headache
- Feeling sick
- Swollen or overgrown gums (good brushing and dental care helps)
- Coarse facial features or extra hair growth with long use
These are usually mild and often get better as your body gets used to it. Tell your doctor if they bother you or do not go away.
Stop using it and get medical help straight away if you notice:
- Thoughts of harming yourself, or sudden changes in mood or behaviour
- A severe skin rash, especially with blisters, peeling, mouth sores or fever
- Seizures that are more frequent or last longer
- Fever, swollen glands and feeling unwell (a rare allergic reaction)
- Unsteady walking, slurred speech, jerky eye movements or confusion (signs of too much phenytoin)
This is not a complete list. If you notice anything unusual, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take it once to three times a day, at the same times each day.
- Always use the same brand, as switching can change your blood level.
- A common adult dose is 300 mg to 400 mg a day, adjusted by blood tests.
- Keep your teeth and gums clean and see a dentist regularly.
If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once.
If you use too much: Contact your doctor, a poison control centre or your local emergency number straight away, even if you feel fine. Take the pack with you.
How to store it: Keep it in its original pack at room temperature (below 25°C / 77°F), away from heat, damp and direct sunlight. Do not use it after the expiry date.
- QCan I stop Dilantin if I have not had a seizure for a long time?
- A
Only with your doctor's advice. Stopping suddenly can bring seizures back. If stopping is right for you, it will be done slowly.
- QCan I drink alcohol with Dilantin?
- A
It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol. It can make you more drowsy and may trigger seizures.
- QCan I drive while taking Dilantin?
- A
It depends on your seizure control and local driving rules. Ask your doctor.

Jun Castillo –
The wait for delivery was short and painless. The listing was easy to understand and nothing felt confusing. The price for Dilantin was reasonable and there were no hidden charges. Great experience, I have already bookmarked the site.
Rohan Mehta –
Customer service was polite and helpful. The order arrived without any hold-ups. Nothing negative to say, it was a good one.
Daniel Clark –
The outer box was discreet and the inside was well arranged. I was not left waiting long, the delivery was quick. I would order Phenytoin here again.
Karan Watson –
No delays at all with shipping. I got an order confirmation right away and updates after that. Good place to order Dilantin online.
Scarlett Aguilar –
This was my second order from the site. Placing the order took only a few minutes. I appreciated the clear emails about my order.