Anyone taking a medication is likely aware that it will come with a risk of side effects. However, some patients may experience Dilantin major side effects beyond what they were led to expect by the information provided with the drug.

Dilantin major side effects may include a movement disorder that can impair the patient’s ability to live independently. Studies indicate that Dilantin has been connected to a higher risk of cerebellar atrophy, a condition in which the cerebellum degenerates, allege the plaintiffs. This condition can lead to problems with coordination, movement and speech.

Dilantin major side effects may come as a surprise to a patient who was never told about the risks until they begin experiencing unexplained medical conditions.

Ultimately, Dilantin major side effects could include cerebellar toxicity — one of the most serious conditions linked to this anti-epileptic medication.

Cerebellar atrophy happens when the brain loses neurons and experiences tissue degeneration. The entire brain could be shrunk during this form of Dilantin major side effects or a certain area of the brain with decreased functions may be impacted. Symptoms of cerebellar atrophy include slow and slurred speech, an unsteady lurching walk, jerky movements, nystagmus and memory loss.

Causes of cerebellar atrophy may also include seizures, tumor, multiple sclerosis, and cerebellar disorders, but a growing number of patients are coming forward alleging that this condition is a Dilantin major side effect as well. Several studies have indicated that cerebellar toxicity caused by use of Dilantin over a long period of time can lead to cerebellar atrophy.

Those patients who have been using the drug for a long period should talk through options with their doctor about the risk factors that could lead to cerebellar atrophy and whether or not they should continue using the drug.

One 2003 study identified that those patients who use Dilantin over the long term had a higher chance of severe cerebellum atrophy. Those children who take Dilantin to treat their epilepsy may also be at risk of this Dilantin major side effect. If not caught quickly, the medical conditions identified as symptoms can develop into serious problems and cause the patient pain and discomfort.

Recovery from localized cerebellar atrophy is possible when patients discontinue taking Dilantin, but those patients who weren’t aware that this was a severe side effect, may not understand the risk and may continue their use with a high risk of serious injury.

In some cases where there is acute toxicity or chronic treatment with Dilantin, injuries may include permanent cerebellar ataxia, referring to a lack of muscle coordination. These long-lasting impacts can have ripple effects on the patient as well as family members.

Patients who have suffered Dilantin major side effects may benefit from a consultation with a pharmaceutical product liability attorney. A Dilantin lawsuit can help patients recover losses related to impaired function, lost earning capacity, and medical expenses.