The medical community is growing increasingly concerned over the alleged link between Dilantin and cerebellar degeneration.

Dilantin is one of America’s most popular anti-epileptic treatment drugs, and has been linked to a number of severe side effects over the years.

Cerebellar degeneration or toxicity is one of the most significant complications associated with Dilantin use.

Cerebellar degeneration refers to the cerebellum deteriorating due to disease, toxicity, or traumatic incident. The cerebellum helps regulate the patient’s voluntary movements like posture and balance, as well as coordination and speech.

Dilantin has also been associated with cerebral atrophy or shrinkage, which can either be generalized or focal.

Overview of Dilantin and Cerebellar Degeneration Correlation

Dilantin and cerebellar degeneration
have been associated with each other since the 1990s when a study analyzed patients taking phenytoin, the main ingredient of Dilantin.

Researchers found that patients exposed to phenytoin had significantly smaller cerebelli, compared to the control group.

This was the first study to notice the correlation between Dilantin and cerebellar degeneration. Since this study was conducted, other inquires have found similar results indicating that Dilantin could potentially induce cerebral nerve damage.

Researchers have found that patients with higher phenytoin exposure levels, or long term Dilantin exposure, had a higher likelihood of developing cerebral damage.

A study reflecting this correlation was published in 2003, in which researchers found patients had a much higher likelihood of developing cerebral complications.

This study also found that pediatric patients taking phenytoin sodium for epilepsy may also be at risk for cerebellar atrophy. It is important to note that damage to the cerebellum is irreversible, with patients often only having physical therapy and medications to help adapt to the symptoms.

Current patients currently taking this medication and are worried about the alleged link to Dilantin and cerebellar degeneration should report it to their physician as soon as possible. Symptoms of cerebellar degeneration include:

• Unsteady or lurching walking gait
• Slow, unsteady, or jerky arm or leg movements
• Slow and slurred speech
• Nystagmus (small rapid eye movements)
• Fine motor skills and coordination difficulty
• Fatigue from typical activities
• Mood or cognitive difficulties

Even though Dilantin and cerebellar degeneration is a very serious correlation, manufacturing company Pfizer has allegedly failed to warn the public.

Patients who allegedly suffered Dilantin cerebral complications may be able to file legal action against the company. Potential claimants should contact a specialized lawyer to determine eligibility for a Dilantin cerebellar atrophy lawsuit.