Recent studies have shown long term adverse effects of Dilantin (phenytoin) may include very serious complications including brain shrinkage.

Also known as cerebral atrophy, or brain atrophy, this condition is described as when the brain begins to shrink and lose neurological function.

Considering the popularity of this anti-epileptic drug, some in the medical community find this potential correlation highly concerning.

While adverse effects of Dilantin have been a concern since the drug was released in the 1950s, cerebral atrophy is one of the most recent concerns.

Dilantin is one of the most widely recognized medications in the United States, and is considered one of the essential medications needed in a basic healthcare system as according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Even though this medication is highly recommended, the adverse effects of Dilantin have made many prescribing physicians explore alternative treatment methods for patients.

Overview of Dilantin Cerebral Atrophy

Cerebral atrophy is often characterized by unbalanced movement and slurred speech, as this condition affects the part of the brain responsible for speech and movement coordination.

This condition can either be focal or generalized, with both forms causing the deterioration of connection neurons in the brain.

While there are several triggers linked to cerebral atrophy, such as physical trauma or Alzheimer’s, long term adverse effects of Dilantin have also been an indicated cause.

Cerebral atrophy has been associated with long term adverse effects of Dilantin since 1994, when a study was published showing a link between phenytoin and this condition.

The study found that the phenytoin patients had significantly smaller cerebelli compared to non phenytoin patients, and that the more severe cases of cerebral damage was linked to higher phenytoin exposure levels.

In a more recent study published in 2003 in the medical journal Seizure, scientists also found patients with higher phenytoin levels tended to suffer more severe atrophy.

This includes patients who were either put on a higher prescription dosage or had been taking the medication for a longer duration. It is important to note this complication is permanent, leaving doctors few options for treatment and limiting the damage.

This makes early diagnosis very important, so Dilantin patients who experience the following symptoms should see their physicians immediately:

• Unsteady or Lurching Walk
• Slow and Unsteady Arm or Leg Movements
• Slow and Slurred speech
• Nystagmus (small rapid eye movements)

Even though these long term adverse effects of Dilantin are very serious, Pfizer allegedly failed to notify the public or the medical community for years.

Patients who may have developed Dilantin cerebral atrophy may be able to file legal action for possible compensation. Potential claimants should contact a specialized lawyer, to determine eligibility for a Dilantin cerebral atrophy lawsuit.