Dilantin induced cerebral atrophy has become a major concern to the medical community, and for patients who need medications for their epileptic conditions.

While Dilantin is typically prescribed to treat different seizure conditions, the medication has been linked to a number of serious complications including cerebral atrophy or brain shrinkage.

Cerebral atrophy is a condition that can be focal (affecting a certain area) or generalized to the whole brain.

Dilantin has been linked to a focal cerebral atrophy in which the cerebellum is the part of the brain which degenerates.

Cerebral atrophy occurs when brain tissue loses neurons, which breaks down the connections between the brain cells.

Overview of Dilantin Induced Cerebral Atrophy

Dilantin (phenytoin) was first linked to cerebral atrophy in the 1990s, when a study analyzed patients prescribed phenytoin their epileptic conditions. Conducted in 1994, scientists conducted the study to observe how the brain is affected during the drug’s treatment mechanism.

Researchers noticed patients exposed to phenytoin had much smaller cerebelli compared to non exposed patients. Several studies have been conducted since, each of which have indicated that Dilantin induced cerebral atrophy may be a significant risk.

A later study was published in 2003, which noted that moderate to severe cerebral atrophy was exhibited in patients on heaver doses of Dilantin or were on using the medication on a long term basis. Dilantin induced cerebral atrophy may also be a potential risk for pediatric patients, who take phenytoin sodium to treat their epileptic conditions.

While there are other factors that can contribute to the patient developing this condition, researchers have warned drug toxicity could be a risk. At this time, researchers do not know why Dilantin may be causing cerebral atrophy in some patients, but believe it may be linked to how the drug’s chemicals interact with the brain.

It is important to note that cerebral atrophy can induce permanent brain damage, so Dilantin patients should report any concerning symptoms to their physicians.

Dilantin induced cerebral atrophy may cause permanent issues with the patient’s coordination and speech abilities, which can be managed through medications and physical therapy, depending on the severity.

While each case of cerebral atrophy is different, early diagnosis is vital to maximize treatment options for patients. Symptoms of Dilantin induced cerebral atrophy include but not limited to are:

• Unsteady gait
• Jerky arm or leg movements
• Slow and slurred speech
• Small rapid eye movements

Dilantin has been on the market since 1953, and is considered one of America’s most reliable antiepileptic medications. Pfizer has been accused of marketing and profiting from the medication for years, but has allegedly failed to warn patients against potential risks.

This has resulted in numerous patients considering taking legal action for allegations pertaining to Dilantin induced cerebral atrophy, along with other adverse Dilantin side effects. Potential claimants should contact a specialized lawyer to determine eligibility for a Dilantin cerebral atrophy lawsuit.