Long-term exposure to Dilantin (phenytoin) has been linked to numerous health complications, with cerebral atrophy or brain shrinkage being one of the primary concerns.

Even though this anti-epileptic drug has helped numerous patients, this medication may be causing more brain damage than soothing pre-existing damage.

Cerebral atrophy can be either focal or generalized, affecting the patient’s ability to speak and perform basic movements.

While the generalized form can potentially affect the entire brain, the focal form of the condition typically attacks the cerebellum and permanently affects the patient’s ability to speak and move.

While this condition has been linked to numerous causes including dementia and physical trauma, long-term exposure to Dilantin and other drugs may also increase the chances of this condition.

Overview of Dilantin Cerebral Atrophy

The alleged link between cerebral atrophy and long-term exposure to Dilantin has been suspected since the 1990s when researchers analyzed how phenytoin may have affected the brain.

Researchers noted the brain affected by long-term exposure to Dilantin had significantly smaller cerebelli compared to the control group.

A more recent study was published in 2007 in which researchers conducted a case study in a female epilepsy patient. She was prescribed Dilantin to treat her condition and stayed on the medication on a long term basis.

Diagnostic images showed her skull had shrunk and that her Dilantin prescription may have caused her to develop cerebral atrophy.

According to a recent study from ehealthme, Dilantin cerebral atrophy may not be a common problem but it is still a concerning side effect. The study analyzed 12,045 phenytoin patients who reported side effects which were collected from the FDA and social media.

As of Sept. 21, 2016, the results were consolidated and found 52 (0.43%) patients developed cerebral atrophy. Overall, studies examining long-term exposure to Dilantin have found this medication may induce higher chances of cerebral atrophy.

Dilantin patients should be wary from any symptoms of cerebral atrophy including unsteady or jerky movements, slow or slurred speech and small rapid eye movements.

Dilantin cerebral atrophy has gained recent attention for the numerous cases patients have reported, which has resulted in numerous product liability claims against manufacturer Pfizer, Inc.

It is important to note this condition is permanent, and can be managed through medication and physical therapy. Patients who may be suffering Dilantin cerebral atrophy should contact a specialized lawyer to determine eligibility for a Dilantin cerebral atrophy lawsuit.