Dilantin is a popular anti-epileptic drug, however its use has been linked to Dilantin cerebral atrophy complications.

Cerebral atrophy is the atrophy or degeneration of brain tissue. When brain tissue degenerates, neurons and neural connections are lost or lessened.

This kind of atrophy can occur over the whole brain, in a generalized form of atrophy, or it can be focused to one area.

When Dilantin cerebral atrophy complications happen in one area of the brain, it decreases the functions that that area of the brain controls.

Generalized brain degeneration is called cerebral atrophy and focal brain degeneration, when it affects the cerebellum, is called cerebellar atrophy.

The cerebellum is the part of the brain that sits under the cerebrum, which is behind the brain stem. It has two hemispheres, or sides, and helps regulate voluntary movements such as posture, balance, coordination and speech.

This part of the brain helps the body move smoothly and precisely as well as helps the body balance itself.

When the cerebellum is damaged, the patient can experience changes in balance, slow movement, body tremors, shaking and unstable eye movements. These Dilantin cerebral atrophy complications often look like symptoms of a stroke because they make physical tasks difficult to complete.

There are certain symptoms of cerebellar degeneration:

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

Dilantin Cerebral Atrophy Complications

Toxins in the brain from dilantin (phenytoin) have been liked with cerebral atrophy.

Research indicates that long-term phenytoin use can lead to Dilantin cerebral atrophy complications. Moreover, research shows that Dilantin also has a higher connection to cerebral atrophy when the drug levels are above the therapeutic range; it has also been shown in patients whose drug levels were within normal.

In 2003, a study published in the journal Seizure indicated that “patients with moderate/severe atrophy were those with longer exposure to phenytoin (longer duration of treatment and higher total dosage).” It also found that of the 56 patients involved in the study, cerebral atrophy was found in 20 patients.

Studies of children who take Dilantin have also found Dilantin cerebral atrophy complications.

Cerebellar Atrophy Treatment

There are some reports that when a patient stops taking Dilantin, the Dilantin cerebral atrophy complications are reduced. Recovery is possible, but a doctor must monitor the patient for withdrawal symptoms.

But it is important to note that some injuries are permanent if there is acute Dilantin toxicity.

If you or someone you love has suffered from Dilantin cerebral atrophy complications, you may be entitled to legal compensation. A specialized Dilantin lawyer can help you decide if a lawsuit is right for you.