Patients across the country are concerned over the alleged link between Dilantin and cerebellar atrophy, with studies indicating serious cerebellar damage risk.

The alleged association between Dilantin and cerebellar atrophy stems at least back to the 1990s, when scientists discovered that Dilantin (phenytoin) patients had significantly smaller cerebelli compared to other patients.

This was discovered in diagnostic image testing, with scientists initially conducting the study to see how phenytoin affected the brain when preventing seizures.

Dilantin is one of the oldest and most reliable anticonvulsant medications in the country, with the drug prescribed to thousands of patients each year. This medication works by slowing down the brain’s electrical signals, preventing the brain from getting overwhelmed and stopping the onset of seizures. Dilantin is prescribed to treat a variety of epileptic conditions, and is often prescribed for off label purpose for treating depression.

There have been a number of complications reported in conjunction with the medication, however, with Dilantin and its link to cerebellar atrophy being one of the concerning side effects.

Over the years, there have been several studies indicating that Dilantin and cerebellar atrophy may have a causal relationship. In each of these studies, scientists found that phenytoin toxicity significantly raised the chances of cerebellar atrophy.

One of the most recent studies was conducted in 2013 and reported in the issue of Neurology Asia, wherein researchers detailed their findings of a case study. The researchers stated “persistent cerebellar dysfunction with cerebellar atrophy is a well known complication of long term phenytoin use.” The case study revolved around a Dilantin patient experiencing cerebellar ataxia, one who had exhibited symptoms of cerebellar atrophy as well as other cognitive side effects.

Overview of Dilantin and Cerebellar Atrophy

Cerebellar atrophy is a brain condition that can be focal or general, in which the focal variant causes cerebellar ataxia or shrinking. This essentially means that the cerebellum slowly degenerates, losing vital neurological connections that allow the patient to properly walk and talk.

The cerebellum is behind the brain stem, and is primarily responsible for coordination and speech. Symptoms of cerebellar atrophy have been compared to a stroke, with patients experiencing:

• Unsteady or Lurching Walking Gait
• Slow, Unsteady, Jerky Arm or Leg Movements
• Slow and Slurred Speech
• Nystagmus (small rapid eye movements)
• Memory loss

It is important to note that there are different stages of cerebellar atrophy, ranging in severity of symptoms. First stage cerebellar atrophy often just involves dizziness and coordination difficulties, while second stage involves complete loss of coordination and overall moving difficulty.

Advanced stage is the most devastating, with patients losing their ability to stand, move, and speak. While there could be a number of factors that can contribute to the cause of cerebellar atrophy, (drug toxicity and degenerative disease like Alzheimer’s have been indicated), phenytoin usage is high on the list.

Dilantin patients who develop these unusual symptoms while taking the medication should report it to their doctor as soon as possible for treatment and to prevent further damage.

Patients who have developed Dilantin cerebellar atrophy may be able to file legal action against Pfizer or its generic manufacturers. Potential claimants should contact a lawyer to determine eligibility for a claim.