Cases of Dilantin-induced focal cerebral atrophy have been reported to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Those who suffered from Dilantin-induced focal cerebral atrophy were among Dilantin adverse event reports.

What is Dilantin Focal Cerebral Atrophy?

The cerebellum portion of the brain is what controls body movements such as speech, posture, balance and coordination. It is responsible for allowing the human body to have precise and balanced motion.

When cerebellar atrophy (or focal cerebral atrophy) occurs, brain tissue cells have lost neurons and the connections between them. When this takes place, individuals can experience a lack of balance, which makes even basic tasks like walking difficult.

Often, cerebellar atrophy symptoms are described as “stroke-like” and include the following:

• Unsteady, lurching walk, which often includes a back and forth tremor in the main part of the body
• Slow speech
• Slurred speech
• Nystagmus (small, rapid movements in the eyes)
• Slow, unsteady, jerky movements in the arms or legs

Physicians who have treated cases of Dilantin induced focal cerebral atrophy report that symptoms can be treated once a patient stops taking the medication. However, occasionally focal cerebral atrophy leaves patients with permanent injuries, especially when it comes to muscle coordination.

Dilantin Cerebellar Atrophy Study

In a 2003 study researchers compared the MRIs of patients who had been taking Dilantin (phenytoin) for at least two months.

Researchers noted that focal cerebral atrophy was detected in some patients. After analyzing all the variables including gender, duration of epilepsy, age and length of use of Dilantin, the study was conclusive in determining that cerebellar atrophy is associated with long-term use of the medication.

Dilantin Lawsuit Information

Dilantin is manufactured by Pfizer for the prevention and management of seizures. The anti-seizure medication effectively slows down brain impulses. Although it is primarily used to treat epilepsy, it is also occasionally used as a seizure preventative for patients who have suffered a head injury.

As shown in the Dilantin study, extensive or long-term exposure of phenytoin can lead to focal cerebral atrophy.

Dilantin focal cerebral atrophy attorneys are currently investigating the link between Dilantin and cerebellar degeneration. If you took Dilantin (phenytoin) and were diagnosed with focal cerebral atrophy, you could be eligible to file a Dilantin cerebellar atrophy lawsuit.