Dilantin brain degeneration is a serious concern for epilepsy patients across the country, with reports of cerebellar atrophy development in some patients. Cases of Dilantin brain degeneration indicate the drug may potentially induce permanent issues with speech and movement, as Dilantin toxicity has been linked to serious cerebellar deterioration.

Dilantin (phenytoin) has been on the market for generations, and is considered one of the oldest and most reliable antiepileptic medications. This medication is primarily used to treat epileptic conditions, but can also treat other conditions including: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Tourette’s syndrome, and other conditions.

Dilantin is often prescribed to patients who have not responded to other medications, with physicians praising the medication for its wide range of treatment uses.

However, the concern about Dilantin brain degeneration has been around since at least as early as 1994, when scientists discovered phenytoin patients had significantly smaller cerebella compared to non-exposed patients.

The study had been initially conducted to observe how Dilantin affects the brain with its treatment process, particularly when preventing seizures. Since this alleged Dilantin brain degeneration was discovered, it has been a prevalent concern in the medical community and patient population.

One of the most recent studies that observed this alleged correlation was conducted in 2013 and was published in Neurology Asia. The researchers wrote that “persistent cerebellar dysfunction with cerebellar atrophy is a well known complication of long term phenytoin use.”

The study also stated a subject had suffered acute Dilantin cerebellar atrophy, but that this was a rare event.

Overview of Dilantin Brain Degeneration

Dilantin works by slowing down the brain’s electrical signals, preventing the brain from becoming overwhelmed and ultimately stopping seizures. Even though this treatment mechanism is very helpful to many patients, it has been alleged that this may be inducing Dilantin brain degeneration.

More specifically, Dilantin brain degeneration has been reported in the forms of cerebellar atrophy, or deterioration of the cerebellum. This particular type of focal brain atrophy can induce serious problem with movement and speech.

The cerebellum’s primary function is to regulate voluntary movements like posture, coordination, and speech, so any damage to this part of the brain can be devastating. Early stage Dilantin cerebellar atrophy symptoms include, but are not limited to:

• Slow, unsteady, or jerky movements in arms or legs
• Slow or slurred speech
• Nystagmus (small rapid eye movements)
• Cognitive or Mood Changes
• Fatigue

However, it is important to note that the movement and speech side effects evolve as the condition progresses, with middle stage and advanced stage cerebellar atrophy symptoms including:

• Aggravated heavy and uncoordinated movements in both arms and legs, along with lack of muscle control
• Complete inability control body posture and walking gait
• Difficulties in chewing and swallowing
• Near or total loss of speech and coordination
• Unable to stand or sit up
• Intelligence deterioration

Due to the severity of these potential side effects, Dilantin patients should consult their doctors as soon as possible if they start experiencing any odd symptoms. There are various treatment options for Dilantin brain damage, but they vary between patients and depend on severity.