Joanna Szabo  |  November 26, 2015

Category: Legal News

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Magnetic resonance image (MRI) of the brainThe popular anticonvulsant medication phenytoin, the generic version of Dilantin, may be connected with a dangerous side effect that impacts the brain.

Phenytoin is one of the more commonly used antiepileptic or anticonvulsant drugs. It is connected with several neurological side effects falling under the category of cerebellar atrophy. Specific side effects include diplopia, dysarthria, ataxia, incoordination and drowsiness, among others.

A recent case study followed a 20-year-old female who suffered from many signs of cerebellar atrophy. She showed both physical and cognitive effects of the disorder, which the study indicated she developed a mere two weeks after she started taking phenytoin.

According to the case study, the patient had a reduced attention span, she gave slow responses, and laughed inappropriately. After six months, the patient had persistent ataxia with cognitive and affective dysfunction, which are consistent with damage to the cerebellum, or the part of the brain that controls muscle coordination. An MRI showed diffuse cerebellar atrophy.

These findings suggest that the ingestion of phenytoin is responsible for the development of persistent ataxia and cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome.

What is Cerebellar Atrophy?

Cerebellar atrophy is a kind of focal cerebral atrophy that is notable for the degeneration of the cerebellum. The cerebellum is the part of the brain directly below the cerebrum, and behind the brain stem. This section is divided into two hemispheres, which help regulate movements and speech.

Cerebellum damage, therefore, can result in imbalance, slow movements, and tremors. These side effects can make physical tasks difficult, unsteady, or even impossible. Cerebellar atrophy symptoms are similar to those of a stroke.

Phenytoin Focal Cerebral Atrophy

Research into the link between phenytoin and cerebellar atrophy indicates that the condition tends to show up after long-term use and when the drug levels are above the normal range. However, the condition has also been reported when taken in the normal range as well.

For many patients who suffer from focal cerebral atrophy, recovery is possible. Patients can be treated for this condition by withdrawing from phenytoin while being carefully monitored by a doctor.

However, some cases indicate that the injuries can be permanent. In these instances, phenytoin treatment may have led to persistent cerebellar dysfunction. This is most common with cerebellar ataxia, which is the lack of muscle coordination.

Phenytoin Lawsuits

Phenytoin side effects can cause great damage, especially if they become permanent. If you or someone you love has suffered from focal cerebral atrophy after taking phenytoin (generic brand Dilantin) you may be able to join a phenytoin lawsuit investigation. While a lawsuit cannot adequately make up for pain and suffering, it can help compensate for injuries.

In general, phenytoin lawsuits are filed individually by each plaintiff and are not class actions.

Do YOU have a legal claim? Fill out the form on this page now for a free, immediate, and confidential case evaluation. The attorneys who work with Top Class Actions will contact you if you qualify to let you know if an individual Dilantin lawsuit or Dilantin class action lawsuit is best for you. Hurry — statutes of limitations may apply.

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If you or a loved one were injured by Dilantin/phenytoin side effects, you may have a legal claim. Fill out the form for a free case evaluation.

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