Long-term Dilantin exposure has been linked to a condition known as cerebellar atrophy, a deterioration of the neurons in the cerebellum.

Dilantin (phenytoin) is an anti-seizure medication taken by patients who experience epileptic seizures. The drug works by interrupting the neurons in the brain, slowing the electrical impulses than activate seizures. But long-term Dilantin exposure can result in neurons deteriorating and dying.

A person suffering from cerebellar atrophy may exhibit a variety of symptoms. Some victims walk as if they are intoxicated because they sway or stumble and are unable to walk with a steady gait. Other symptoms include:

• Uncoordinated movements of the arms or legs
• Shaking of the hands
• Loss of memory
• Poor concentration
• Interrupted sleep
• Clumsiness with daily activities such as buttoning a shirt or brushing teeth
• Speech disturbances such as changes in tone, pitch, and volume
• Abnormal eye movements
• Clumsy or slurred speech pattern

Seizures themselves can cause brain atrophy, but a 1994 study took that into account when researchers observed patients who took Dilantin and those who had never taken the drug. The cerebelli of those treated with Dilantin were reportedly smaller than that portion of the brain in non-treated patients.

Research also found that the severity and incidence of Dilantin cerebellar atrophy symptoms appeared to be related to the doses of Dilantin ingested and to the length of time the patient was on the medication.

Long-term Dilantin Exposure Symptoms Vary

According to Epilepsy.com, long-term Dilantin exposure can lead to weakening of the bones. Patients who exercise, take vitamin D supplements and eat calcium-rich foods are less apt to experience bone disease. Some non-food calcium supplements such as Tums will reduce the absorption properties of Dilantin and should only be take two hours post-Dilantin.

Long-term Dilantin exposure can result in slow or suppressed reflexes due to nerve damage in the legs.

Some patients who are allergic to Dilantin can suffer liver or bone marrow damage. Others might develop a dangerous rash known as Stevens Johnson Syndrome, which requires immediate medical intervention.

In July 2008, an FDA advisory panel reviewed data regarding anti-epileptic drugs and suicidal ideation and behavior (together known as suicidality). The FDA found one out of 1,000 people taking a placebo (inactive “sugar pill”) showed suicidality compared to 3.5 out of 1,000 who took an anti-epileptic drug.

Anyone taking anti-epileptic medications, including those with long-term Dilantin exposure, should be especially aware of withdrawing from friends and family, becoming preoccupied with death and dying, giving away prized possessions, or talking or even thinking about hurting oneself or ending one’s life.

Be aware that suddenly stopping the medication can lead to an onset of seizures and a worsening of the depressed mood.

Always talk to a doctor regarding any questions regarding long-term Dilantin exposure. If you believe you or a loved one has cerebellar atrophy from Dilantin use, consider consulting with a lawyer to see if you have legal recourse.