Drug induced cerebellar atrophy has become widely associated with the popular antiepileptic drug, Dilantin (phenytoin), which is prescribed to thousands of patients on a regular basis. Numerous injury reports indicate long term or even short term Dilantin use could increase the risk of drug induced cerebellar atrophy.

While drug induced cerebellar atrophy may be caused by different substances, including alcohol or other prescription medications, the growing association with Dilantin has spurred concern in the medical community and patient population.

Drug induced cerebellar atrophy has been linked to Dilantin since 1994, when a study revealed phenytoin patients had significantly smaller cerebella compared to non-exposed patients. The study was initially conducted to observe the treatment mechanism of phenytoin when scientists noticed the cerebella in diagnostic images.

Another study indicating the correlation between Dilantin and drug induced cerebellar atrophy was published in the July 2003 European Journal of Epilepsy, which found the risk was greater in patients with long-term Dilantin prescriptions. The study consisted of 56 patients, with 20 patients who reportedly developed cerebellar atrophy.

Overview of Cerebellar Atrophy Risks

It is important to note that drug induced cerebellar atrophy is not the only cause of this condition, with the risks varying according to the patient’s environment and what their brain is exposed to. Conditions or occurrences that can increase the chances of cerebellar atrophy include, but not limited to:

• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Stroke
• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Cerebellar Palsy
• Dementia
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Huntington’s Disease

Dilantin is a popular antiepileptic medication that has been on the market since the 1950s, making it one of the oldest and most reliable drugs for epilepsy in America.

The drug works by slowing down the electrical signals in the brain, which stops the brain from becoming overwhelmed and prevents the onset of seizures. However, Dilantin has become associated with a number of concerning side effects over the years, including increased risk for cerebellar atrophy.

Cerebellar atrophy, also known as focal cerebral atrophy, is a condition in which the cerebellum starts to deteriorate and lose function. Atrophy is described as part of the body that loses function and wastes away over time. Cerebellar atrophy refers to the cerebellum losing vital neurological connections for voluntary movements.

The cerebellum is the part of the brain that rests behind the cerebrum, which is responsible the neurological connections that allow for speech and movement. Patients suffering from cerebellar atrophy will often experience symptoms relating to movement and speech difficulties including:

• Changes in Cognitive Function
• Difficulty in Maintaining Posture
• Fine Motor Coordination Difficulties
• Fatigue
• Slow, Unsteady, or Jerky Movements in Arms or Legs
• Slow or Slurred Speech
• Unsteady Walking Gait
• Nystagmus (small rapid eye movements)
• Memory Loss

Dilantin patients who believe they may be suffering from cerebellar atrophy, or are worried about developing the condition, should consult their physician immediately. Early diagnosis means more options for treatment methods and minimizes potential damage.

If left untreated, cerebellar atrophy can cause serious neurological damage. Manufacturing company Pfizer is currently facing criticism for allegedly failing to warn consumers about drug induced cerebellar atrophy, with patient advocates assessing injury claims.