Although cerebellar ataxia from Dilantin (phenytoin) has been reported for the past several years, patients may not have received adequate warnings about this condition.

If not treated promptly, cerebellar ataxia from Dilantin can potentially result in permanent speech and movement problems. Dilantin is one of the oldest and most reliable anti-epileptic medications in the United States, so it is important for patients and doctors to have a comprehensive understanding of the drug’s potential side effects.

Dilantin has been popularly prescribed to treat patients with epilepsy since the 1950s, due to its low pricing and its wide range of uses. Like other anti-epileptics, Dilantin works by slowing down the electrical signals in the brain to prevent the onset of seizures.

When used properly, Dilantin is supposed to help epilpetic patients live a normal life with minimal interference from seizures. However, alleged reports of cerebellar ataxia from Dilantin have been reported since the early 1990s when it was unexpectedly discovered in an inquiry analyzing the drug’s treatment mechanism.

The study was conducted in 1994, when scientists were studying how the drug affected the brain during seizures. During this time, scientists noted Dilantin patients had significantly smaller cerebella compared to other patients.

Numerous other cases that have alleged cerebellar ataxia from Dilantin have been noted by scientists, with one case study reported in the 2013 issue of the journal Neurology Asia.

The case study revolved around a young women who had began taking Dilantin for eight weeks after being diagnosed with hemiplegia, as a precaution against potential seizures.

Even though she was only on the medication for a short time, scientists still discovered significant cerebellar damage. In another study, researchers had analyzed 25 epilepsy patents who had been treated with Dilantin or generic phenytoin for long term treatment purposes.

The average age of the subjects was 21, with 52% of patients alleging cerebellar ataxia from Dilantin. The study notes that the alleged link between Dilantin and cerebellar ataxia could impact its popularity, and that cerebellar ataxia should be taken seriously as a potential side effect.

Overview of Dilantin Cerebellar Ataxia

Cerebral atrophy can either be generalized or focal, in which the brain or parts of it shrink or deteriorate overtime respectively. The condition occurs when brain tissue deteriorates and loses neurological connections between the brain and the rest of the body, resulting in the patient developing movement and speech impairments.

Cerebellar atrophy is the degeneration of the cerebellum, which sits under the cerebrum that is behind the brain stem. The cerebellum is primarily responsible for controlling movement and balance.

While there are numerous causes or factors that can increase the risks of cerebellar ataxia, such as traumatic injury or degenerative illness, Dilantin toxicity has been reported to be a cause.

Patients who develop cerebellar ataxia can be treated, but they should speak to their doctor as soon as possible to prevent further damage. It is important to note there is no cure for cerebellar ataxia, with patients often prescribed with vitamins and physical therapy to help with the speech and movement impairments.

Patients who may have allegedly developed cerebellar ataxia from Dilantin may be eligible for legal action. Potential claimants should contact a lawyer to determine eligibility for a Dilantin cerebellar ataxia lawsuit.