Dilantin, generically known as phenytoin, is an anti-epileptic drug that is used to control seizures in patients with epilepsy.

It is also used for a variety of psychological conditions as well, including bipolar disorder, major depression and other psychological conditions.

Some patients have felt that Dilantin is a lifesaver, because it has helped them in ways other medications have not, and with fewer side effects.

What these patients may not know, however, is that Dilantin can cause changes in the brain that may not be apparent until some time has passed.

These changes are quite serious in nature, and they may be permanent.

Dilantin Cerebellar Degeneration

The most serious side effect of Dilantin use is a condition known as cerebellar degeneration, also referred to as cerebellar atrophy.

The cerebellum is a part of the brain responsible for the coordination of movement and balance. Degeneration refers to the death or wasting of neurons (nerve cells) in the brain.

Dilantin cerebellar degeneration can lead to problems with speech, coordination of movement, posture, balance and more, as these are all directly controlled by the action of the cerebellum.

Research studies have shown that Dilantin cerebellar degeneration is the result of Dilantin use in some patients. The nerve cells in the cerebellum deteriorate and eventually die, causing the cerebellum to lose volume and essentially shrink in size.

Dilantin cerebellar degeneration can sometimes be stopped by having the patient simply discontinue the medication. Over time, some patients may have all of their problems caused by Dilantin cerebellar degeneration resolved, rendering their brain function normal once again.

However, for others, the damage caused by Dilantin cerebellar degeneration may have permanent and lasting effects.

Research studies have shown that the longer a patient has taken Dilantin, the more likely the Dilantin cerebellar degeneration will have lasting effects.

Symptoms of Dilantin Cerebellar Degeneration

The symptoms of Dilantin cerebellar degeneration mimic those of alcohol toxicity. When alcohol is consumed in excess, it particularly targets the cerebellum in the brain and affects brain functioning related to the cerebellum.

Symptoms of Dilantin cerebellar degeneration include:

• Difficulty coordinating movements, especially fine motor coordination
• Mood and cognitive difficulties
• Difficulty maintaining an erect, upright posture
• Unusual eye movements known as nystagmus
• Jerky, slow and unsteady movements of arms and legs
• Tripping, falling, staggering or unsteady walking
• Fatigue during the performance of regular activities or “needing to concentrate on” movements

Filing a Dilantin Cerebellar Degeneration Lawsuit

Many patients who were diagnosed with Dilantin cerebellar degeneration state that they were not made fully aware of the serious side effects that accompanied Dilantin use.

Plaintiffs who have taken legal action against drug manufacturers often allege that the manufacturer failed to adequately warn of severe side effects related to the drug.

If you have taken Dilantin and have been diagnosed with Dilantin cerebellar degeneration, you may be eligible to seek legal compensation from the drug manufacturer. A Dilantin attorney can review your case discuss the legal options that are available to you in a free consultation if you qualify.