Research over the past few decades has indicated that Dilantin (phenytoin) has been linked to visible changes in the structure of the brain. In particular, Dilantin has been associated with brain degeneration, and more specifically, with a condition known as cerebellar atrophy.

Dilantin brain atrophy has been observed in patients who have only been on the medication for a short time as well as in patients who have used the medication long-term. Research studies have concluded that the longer a patient has used Dilantin, the more likely they are to experience Dilantin brain atrophy, and the more serious the condition may become.

Dilantin is commonly prescribed to patients who have been diagnosed with partial seizures and tonic-clonic seizures. The drug may prove to be incredibly effective in stopping the abnormal brain activity in individuals who are taking the drug. However, many patients are not aware that the same drug that is helping them control their seizures can also be causing them to develop Dilantin brain atrophy.

Dilantin Brain Atrophy Symptoms

Dilantin brain atrophy in the form of cerebellar atrophy causes the cerebellum of the brain to degenerate and waste away. The cerebellum is responsible for coordinating muscle activity in the body as well as speech and coordination. Typically, the cerebellum, located at the base of the brain, is the only part of the brain to be affected, and this is known as a focal or localized cerebral atrophy.

In general, Dilantin brain atrophy symptoms actually mimic those in cases of alcohol intoxication. The following symptoms have been observed:

• Difficulty maintaining upright posture
• Unsteady gait or staggering
• Difficulty maintaining balance
• Fine motor coordination difficulties, including problems writing, cutting food etc.
• Difficulty swallowing
• Slurred speech or other speech difficulties
• Cognitive and emotional difficulties
• Nystagmus, or unusual eye movements
• Fatigue in trying to perform normal activities

Dilantin brain atrophy symptoms mirror alcohol intoxication because in cases of alcohol intoxication, the cerebellum is the organ most affected. Patients taking Dilantin may in fact appear drunk, and their behavior may seem questionable to friends and family members and even unsuspecting healthcare professionals.

Sometimes, stopping Dilantin can help to halt further progression of cerebellar atrophy and in some cases, the condition may be partially reversed. However, in certain circumstances, the patient appears to continue to deteriorate in the process that was essentially jumpstarted by the use of the antiepileptic drug.

Filing a Lawsuit over Dilantin Brain Atrophy

If you or a loved one experienced Dilantin brain atrophy after taking the anti seizure medication, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against the drug’s manufacturer. Personal injury lawsuits involving pharmaceuticals commonly allege that the drug was defectively designed or manufactured or the manufacturer failed to appropriately warn of potential dangers and side effects associated with medication.

Plaintiffs who go on to file successful personal injury lawsuits against drug companies may be eligible to be compensated for medical expenses, lost wages and earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship with a spouse and more.

If you qualify, an experienced product liability attorney can review the details of your potential Dilantin brain atrophy case in a no-obligation, complementary consultation.