Dilantin, a form of the generic drug phenytoin, is a commonly prescribed anticonvulsant used to treat most types of seizure disorders and epilepsy.

However, it has recently come to light that long-term use of the drug may lead to Dilantin toxicity or a condition known as cerebral atrophy.

What is Dilantin Toxicity?

Medical research has shown that Dilantin may accumulate in the cerebral cortex over long periods of time, referred to as Dilantin toxicity.

These “toxic” levels of the drug may trigger an irreversible brain condition called cerebral atrophy – a degeneration of the cerebellum.

Cerebral atrophy refers to the progressive loss of brain cells over time. Atrophy refers to a decreased size or wasting away of any part of the body.

Cerebral atrophy can happen in either the entire brain or in just one part of the brain and can lead to decreased brain mass and loss of neurological function.

Cerebral atrophy symptoms related to Dilantin toxicity include:

Fast, uncontrollable eye movements or double vision: Nystagmus is the medical term for involuntary jerking movements of the eyes and is typically the first indication of cerebral atrophy.

Patients may also lose the ability to smoothly follow an object with their eyes. Nystagmus sometimes occurs even when Dilantin levels are normal. Since nystagmus is not harmful, its occurrence will not always require a dosage reduction.

Blurred vision, especially double vision, occurs when Dilantin levels have exceeded recommended levels. A patient with double vision may see multiple images that are vertical, horizontal or diagonal.

Poor Coordination and Drowsiness: Poor coordination (also known as ataxia), appears different in each person. It can range from slight clumsiness and difficulty performing tasks that require fine-motor skills, to a lurching walk, slurred speech and difficulty swallowing.

Drowsiness, especially excessive drowsiness, is also a signal that Dilantin levels are too high.

Involuntary Movements:  Cerebral atrophy symptoms also include involuntary jerking movements. These involuntary movements can involve the body, the face or the arms and legs.

Other cerebral atrophy symptoms that may be attributed to Dilantin toxicity include nausea or vomiting, decreased appetite, decreased activity, and abdominal bloating.

The degree of cerebral atrophy is related to the duration of Dilantin treatment and is not related to dosage of the medication, putting those who take the medication at risk for developing the condition.

Additionally, cerebral atrophy symptoms may come on slowly or rapidly, depending on why the patient’s cerebellum is degenerating.

Study Suggests Dilantin Linked to Cerebral Atrophy

Recently, several medical research studies have found the toxic effects of long-term use of the seizure medication Dilantin may be one of the most common cerebral atrophy causes.

One of these studies, published in the July 2003 European Journal of Epilepsy examined patients with epilepsy and used phenytoin (Dilantin) long-term.  Of the 56 patients involved in the study, it was found that cerebral atrophy was detected in 20 patients.

Based on the study data, researchers concluded that although the duration of epilepsy may have an influence on cerebral atrophy, it is not as significant as the length of exposure to Dilantin.

Dilantin Lawsuits

There is no cure for cerebral atrophy. Once brain cells have been lost, the damage is permanent. Treatment for cerebral atrophy focuses on treating the symptoms and complications of the condition.

If you or a loved one has suffered from cerebral atrophy symptoms which you believe to be associated with the long-term use of Dilantin, an experienced Dilantin attorney can discuss your legal options.

You may have cause to file a Dilantin lawsuit against Pfizer in order to seek financial compensation for your injuries, the medical expenses associated with Dilantin cerebral atrophy and the pain and suffering endured by you or your family member.