Cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin have been linked, according to several studies.

The cerebellum is located at the base of the brain just above the brain stem and consists of two sections of folded tissue. The right side of the cerebellum initiates movement on the right side of the body, and the left side of the cerebellum controls movement on the left.

Dilantin is Pfizer’s brand name of phenytoin, an anti-seizure medication prescribed to treat epileptic seizures. In cases of Dilantin cerebellar atrophy, the cerebellum has shrunk. This shrinkage can be seen in imaging studies. The brain loses neurons and the connections between them. Posture, balance, coordination and speech are all functions that can be affected when the cerebellum is damaged.

Indications that someone is suffering from cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin side effects include a jerking walk, uncoordinated movements of the limbs or trunk, and tremors or shaking. Slurred speech and fast, abnormally rapid eye movements along with a headache can also indicate cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin problems.  Other symptoms include trouble sleeping, nervousness, dizziness, nausea or swollen, tender gums.

Difficulty swallowing or even completing fine motor tasks such as eating, writing, brushing teeth or buttoning clothes all can be indications of cerebellar damage.

Cerebellar Atrophy and Dilantin Studies

Seizures alone can cause brain atrophy, but in 1994 a study took that fact into account when researchers compared the brains of patients who took Dilantin with those who had never taken the drug.

The cerebella of those treated with Dilantin appeared much smaller than that portion of the brain in non-treated patients. The incidence and severity of cerebellar deterioration were in turn linked to the number of doses and the dosage levels of Dilantin.

Researchers say cerebellar atrophy from Dilantin is more likely after long-term use of the drug and when drug serum levels climb beyond the therapeutic range.Still, cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin have been linked in patients whose drug levels remained within a normal range.

Studies show pediatric and elderly patients are more at risk of Dilantin side effects. Medications that treat abnormal heart rhythms, alcoholism, ulcers and tuberculosis can also increase the chances of toxicity.

The fact that cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin are at all linked prove the medication is potent, with even a small increase in the dose potentially leading to toxic levels.

Not all symptoms of cerebellar atrophy are permanent. Some patients respond with occupational therapy to improve speech patterns.

If you have experienced cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin side effects, you should contact a doctor immediately to see if reducing or eliminating the medication is an option. You also could be eligible to join a free Dilantin cerebellar atrophy lawsuit investigation to see if you qualify to be compensated for your injuries.