The concern of Dilantin toxicity has been prevalent in the patient population and medical community for decades, as patients continue to report serious side effects like cerebellar atrophy.

While there are a number of different factors that can contribute to cerebellar atrophy, Dilantin toxicity has been reported as a potential cause for years.

Dilantin toxicity can be described as the drug’s pharmaceutical properties having a negative impact on the patient’s body, most noticeably in the brain. Studies have shown that exposure to phenytoin, the main ingredient of Dilantin, can significantly increase the chances of cerebellar atrophy.

The alleged correlation between Dilantin toxicity and cerebellar atrophy was first seen in a study published in 1994 issue of the Archives of Neurology, in which scientists discovered phenytoin patients had significantly smaller cerebelli compared to non exposed patients.

This study was initially conducted to observe Dilantin’s treatment mechanism, when it was working to counteract oncoming seizures. Dilantin is an antiepileptic medication prescribed to treat a variety of epileptic conditions, and works by slowing down the electrical signals in the brain to prevent seizures.

While this medication is one of the oldest and most reliable of its kind on the market, the alleged correlation between Dilantin toxicity and cerebellar atrophy has caused major concern in the market.

A later study published in the July 2003 issue of Seizure had found similar results, with the study consisting of 56 patients who were prescribed phenytoin. Researchers found that long term Dilantin toxicity increases the chances of cerebellar atrophy.

In addition to these studies, the FDA has reportedly received 11,836 Dilantin toxicity injury reports with none of those cases indicating cerebellar atrophy. Due to the severity of this condition, Dilantin patients are advised to be vigilant for any unusual symptoms and report them to their physician as soon as possible.

Overview of Cerebellar Atrophy Effects

Cerebellar atrophy is a condition in which the cerebellum begins to deteriorate, losing vital neurological connections between the brain and spine. Cerebellar atrophy is the focal variant of general brain atrophy, in which the entirety of the brain shrinks and loses neurological connectivity.

The cerebellum sits under the brain stem and is responsible for voluntary movements like moving and talking. These actions are greatly impacted by this condition. Patients suffering from this condition typically experience symptoms such as:

• Unsteady or Lurching Walking Gait
• Slow, Unsteady, or Jerky Movements in Arms or Legs
• Slow and Slurred Speech
• Nystagmus (small rapid eye movements)
• Memory Loss

The severity of cerebellar atrophy ranges between patients and can depend on the level of Dilantin toxicity they have experienced and the stage of the condition when it is diagnosed. There are several treatment options available to help taper the severity of the symptoms, but there is no cure for cerebellar atrophy.

Patients who allegedly developed cerebellar atrophy due to Dilantin toxicity, may be able to file legal action against Pfizer Inc. for failing to warn them against this possibility. Potential claimants can seek damages for any missed work and wages, disability, and any other forms of medical compensation.