Long term use of Dilantin has been linked to an increased risk of developing a serious side effect known as cerebellar atrophy, or brain atrophy.

Attorneys are investigating potential lawsuits that may be brought against the pharmaceutical manufacturer for violating consumer protection laws.

What is Dilantin?

Dilantin, generically known as phenytoin, is a common antiepileptic medication prescribed to treat patients who have been diagnosed with epilepsy or seizures. Dilantin (phenytoin) works by interacting with a person’s nerve cells in the brain.

In order for the human brain to function properly, brain cells must fire or work at a certain rate. During a seizure, a person’s brain cells, or neurons fire at a much higher rate than normal. Dilantin (phenytoin) calms electrical activity in the brain and prevents the brain neurons from firing at a rate that would cause a seizure.

Side Effects of Dilantin

Common side effects of Dilantin (phenytoin) include jerking movements of the eyes, decreased coordination, memory problems, and slurred speech. These side effects can be an indicator of a much more serious side effect known as cerebellar atrophy or brain atrophy.

What is Cerebellar Atrophy?

Cerebellar atrophy, sometimes referred to as brain atrophy, is a serious condition that occurs when brain tissues degenerate and loses neurons and the connections between those neurons. Brain atrophy can be generalized, effecting the entire brain, or it can be focal.

Cerebellar atrophy is focal brain atrophy that effects a person’s cerebellum. The cerebellum is the part of the brain that regulates voluntary movements which include posture, balance, coordination, and speech.

Long Term Use of Dilantin

There are several conditions that can lead to brain atrophy. These conditions include stroke, multiple sclerosis, tumors, seizures and other disorders. In 2003, medical researchers performed a study that found moderate to severe brain atrophy was linked to long term Dilantin (phenytoin) use and situations where phenytoin levels were above therapeutic range.

Some patients may recover from the effects of cerebellar atrophy. Treatment generally requires the patient to discontinue the use of Dilantin. Patients should not stop taking a medication with out seeking the advice of a medical professional. In some cases the side effects of Dilantin (phenytoin) brain atrophy  were permanent.

Dilantin Cerebellar Atrophy Lawsuits

Patients who have suffered the side effects of brain atrophy while taking Dilantin (phenytoin) may be able to bring a lawsuit against the pharmaceutical manufacturer. Deciding to bring a Dilantin lawsuit is a big decision that should be made after weighing all the facts and circumstances of an individual’s case.

Cerebellar atrophy attorneys can provide a case evaluation for potential plaintiffs to help determine whether or not a lawsuit should be brought. Claims that may be brought against the makers of Dilantin may include negligence, failure to warn, breach of contract, and misrepresentation.

Successful plaintiffs may receive compensation for their past and future medical bills as well as any pain and suffering the plaintiff experienced due to taking the anticonvulsant medication. Lawsuits like these also help hold pharmaceutical manufacturers accountable for their actions and reminds businesses that they owe consumers a specific duty of care.