Patients across the country are worried about Dilantin adverse side effects, particularly the possible complication of cerebellar atrophy. This condition has been linked to Dilantin adverse side effects since the 1990s, when scientists noted phenytoin (generic Dilantin) patients had significantly smaller cerebelli compared to non-exposed patients.

In a 1994 study, researchers set out to examine how the drug affects the brain in preventing seizures. While looking at diagnostic images, scientists discovered phenytoin patients had significant cerebellar damage compared to other patients.

A similar study was conducted in 2003, with researchers finding that moderate to severe cerebral atrophy was found in long term phenytoin patients. This study indicated that long term Dilantin patients may be at higher risk for developing cerebellar atrophy.

While not all cases or cerebellar atrophy are linked to phenytoin exposure, it is still important to be aware of the association with Dilantin adverse side effects. Similar inquiries have been conducted since, which further have indicated a link between cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin adverse side effects.

Overview of Dilantin Adverse Side Effects

Dilantin is one of the country’s oldest and most reliable antiepileptic medications. It has been available since the 1950s to treat a variety of epileptic conditions. This medication works by slowing down the electrical signals in the brain, which ultimately prevents the onset of seizures.

While this drug has worked well for millions of patients, there has been growing concern over Dilantin adverse side effects. While patients are warned about headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and other side effects typically associated with prescription medications, Dilantin patients may not get a proper warning about cerebellar atrophy.

Cerebellar atrophy, also known as focal cerebral atrophy, is the deterioration of the cerebellum and may cause serious damage to the patient’s ability to walk and talk. Cerebellar atrophy can be induced by chronic disease like Alzheimer’s or traumatic brain injury, both of which can cause irreparable damages to the brain.

The cerebellum site under the cerebrum that is behind the brain stem, which connects the brain to the central nervous system. The cerebellum is primarily responsible for control of voluntary movements like posture and coordination, as well the patient’s ability to talk. Patients suffering from cerebellar atrophy may experience certain symptoms including:

• Unsteady or lurching walk
• Slow, unsteady, or jerky arm or leg movements
• Slow and slurred speech
• Nystagmus (small rapid eye movements)
• Memory loss

Patients who are suffering from cerebellar atrophy could potentially suffer permanent damage, so they should report any unusual symptoms to their physicians immediately. Treatment options vary between patients, but it is unlikely that the damage can be completely reversed.

While there are multiple causes or contributing factors that can cause cerebellar atrophy, patients and prescribing physicians should be aware of the studies indicating a correlation to Dilantin adverse side effects.

Furthermore, Pfizer Inc. and generic manufacturers have the civil responsibility of listing potential Dilantin adverse side effects on the warning label. Patients have a right to know what side effects have been reported in conjunction with the medications they take.