Dilantin, a form of the generic drug phenytoin, is a commonly prescribed anticonvulsant used to treat most types of seizure disorders and epilepsy.

However, it has recently come to light that long-term use of the drug may lead to an adverse Dilantin cerebellar atrophy prognosis.

About Dilantin

Dilantin is a prescription anticonvulsant drug which was originally developed as a treatment for individuals suffering from seizures and other seizure-related disorders.

The active ingredient in Dilantin is phenytoin sodium, and the drug functions by slowing down impulses in the brain which are responsible for causing seizures.

Dilantin was approved by the FDA in 1953 specifically to prevent grand mal and complex partial seizures associated with epilepsy.  However, the drug is also often prescribed for off-label purposes like anxiety control and mood stabilization when physicians deem Dilantin treatment appropriate.

Dilantin is also indicated for the prevention and treatment of seizures occurring during or following neurosurgery.

Dilantin is currently manufactured by Pfizer, Inc.

What is Cerebellar Atrophy?

Cerebellar atrophy refers to the progressive loss of brain cells over time. Atrophy refers to a decreased size or wasting away of any part of the body.

Cerebellar atrophy can happen in either the entire brain or in just one part of the brain and can lead to decreased brain mass and loss of neurological function.

Symptoms of a Dilantin cerebellar atrophy prognosis may include:

• Fast, uncontrollable eye movements or double vision
• Dizziness, drowsiness or confusion
• Lack of coordination of fingers, hands, arms, legs or body
• Slurred speech
• Nausea or vomiting
• Decreased appetite, decreased activity, abdominal bloating or irregular jerky movements in children or the elderly

Study Suggests Dilantin Linked to Cerebellar Atrophy

Recently, several medical research studies have found the toxic effects of long-term use of the seizure medication Dilantin may be one of the most common cerebellar atrophy causes.

One of these studies, published in the July 2003 European Journal of Epilepsy examined patients with epilepsy and used phenytoin (Dilantin) long-term.

Of the 56 patients involved in the study, it was found that cerebellar atrophy was detected in 20 patients.

Based on the study data, researchers concluded that although the duration of epilepsy may have an influence on cerebellar atrophy, it is not as significant as the length of exposure to Dilantin.

Dilantin Cerebellar Atrophy Prognosis

For patients taking the seizure medication, the degree of Dilantin cerebellar atrophy prognosis is related to the duration of Dilantin treatment and is not related to dosage of the medication, putting those who take the medication at risk for developing the condition.

Additionally, cerebellar atrophy symptoms may come on slowly or rapidly, depending on why the patient’s cerebellum is degenerating.

There’s no treatment specifically for cerebellar atrophy. In some cases, treating the underlying cause resolves the atrophy over time. Patients may benefit from adaptive devices or physical, occupational or speech therapies to help with their Dilantin cerebellar atrophy prognosis.

If you or a loved one suffered a type of focal cerebral atrophy known as cerebellar atrophy after long term use of Dilantin, you may be eligible to join a Dilantin lawsuit investigation and pursue compensation for your injuries related to a Dilantin cerebellar atrophy prognosis.