According to recent studies, Dilantin medication, an antiepileptic drug prescribed for the treatment of epilepsy and seizures, is being linked to adverse side effects including the risk for developing cerebellar atrophy. Cerebellar atrophy, also known as cerebellar degeneration, is the degeneration of the cerebellum, a part of the brain that sits below the cerebrum and behind the brain stem.

Long term use of Dilantin medication is shown to increase the risks for cerebellar atrophy that may affect functions of the brain that are responsible for speech, coordination, and movement. Other adverse side effects being warned about with Dilantin medication include the development of cerebellar toxicity.

Overview: Dilantin Medication

Cerebellar atrophy occurs when the tissue of the cerebellum degenerates, thereby causing a loss of neurons and the neural connections that occur between them. Some symptoms for cerebellar atrophy may include jerky movements in the arms or legs; an unsteady, lurching walk; nystagmus, which is small rapid movements of the eyes; slow and slurred speech; and memory loss.

Anyone who develops Dilantin medication cerebellar atrophy side effects can suffer from developing slow movements, tremors, and from suffering from a lack of balance. Since the cerebellum is responsible for coordination and movement, physical tasks may become unsteady and difficult. Symptoms for someone who develops cerebellar atrophy may also show symptoms similar to someone who has recently suffered a stroke.

Cerebellar atrophy may be generalized, affecting the entire brain, or focal, affecting only a specific part of the brain. Any part of the brain which suffers from atrophy loses brain function to which it is responsible for. Focal cerebellar atrophy affects the cerebellum, which is responsible for speech, balance, posture, and coordination. It is divided into two hemispheres and is what allows for smooth, precise, and balanced movement.

There are many ways cerebellar atrophy may develop. Some causes may include Multiple Sclerosis (MS), seizures, tumors, and stroke. Toxins, however, may also be linked to the development of cerebellar atrophy, such as toxins from chemotherapy treatments, ethanol, and even Dilantin medication.

According to recent medical research, long term use of Dilantin medication is linked to the development of cerebellar atrophy. Studies have concluded that when the drug’s serum levels are above a standard or therapeutic range, cerebellar atrophy has been said to develop. However, cerebellar atrophy has also risen when drug levels have appeared within the normal range.

When it comes to cerebellar atrophy treatment, recovery from cerebral atrophy is said to be possible once a patient stops taking Dilantin medication. The withdrawal from Dilantin is followed by a physician. However, in some instances, the development of cerebral atrophy has been said to be a permanent injury. This is particularly the case when it comes to the development of cerebellar ataxia, or the lack of muscle coordination.

If you or someone you know have suffered from the development of cerebellar atrophy or cerebellar degeneration caused by long-term Dilantin medication, you may be eligible to file a Dilantin medication lawsuit or join in a lawsuit investigation.