Dilantin and cerebellar degeneration have been linked in recent years as patients and physicians are reporting cases of cerebellar atrophy as it relates to Dilantin use.

Dilantin, or phenytoin, is a widely-used anti-epileptic drug that has been on the market for many years. It is an anticonvulsant that slows down brain impulses that cause seizures.

It can prevent tonic-clonic seizures and partial seizures. However, it has been found that long-term use of Dilantin and cerebellar degeneration are connected.

What is Cerebellar Degeneration?

Cerebellar degeneration is the atrophy, or shrinking, of a certain part of the brain. When brain tissue degenerates it loses neurons and the connections between neurons.

When the brain experiences atrophy, it can occur all over. Atrophy can also be focalized on a certain part of the brain.

Cerebellar atrophy or degeneration is atrophy that is focused on the cerebellum. The cerebellum is the part of the brain that helps the body regulate movements like speech, coordination, posture and balance. The cerebellum helps the body move smoothly and precisely.

When this part of the brain is hurt, the patient has difficulty walking and may lose balance. The patient may experience slowed movements, tremors and shaking as well as nystagmus, which is small, rapid eye movements.

Other signs of cerebellar atrophy include an unsteady walking motion, slurred speech, and slow, jerky movements in the extremities. Sometimes, these symptoms are confused with symptoms of a stroke.

The use of Dilantin and cerebellar degeneration have been connected, especially if a patient has used Dilantin over a long period of time.

Elevated levels of phenytoin in the brain over the long term have been linked to cerebellar degeneration. Also, when Dilantin use is above the therapeutic range, patients have a higher risk of developing cerebral atrophy of some sort.

Some more recent research has linked cerebellar degeneration both to longer duration of Dilantin treament and to higher dosage levels.

However, when Dilantin use is stopped, it is possible to recover from cerebellar degeneration or cerebral atrophy. Doctors should monitor the cessation of phenytoin use, and some symptoms may not be reversed such as muscle coordination.

If you suspect that the use of Dilantin and cerebellar degeneration are linked in you or someone you love, you may benefit from speaking with an attorney experienced in Dilantin and cerebellar degeneration.

While filing a Dilantin lawsuit cannot take away the pain and suffering of cerebellar degeneration, it can help alleviate the financial burden of medical expenses and lost wages.