Dilantin cerebellar ataxia, or a loss of control of bodily movements, is a real concern for patients taking the drug.

Dilantin, an anti-seizure medication, is popular among epilepsy patients and other patients attempting to control seizure symptoms. Dilantin, generically known as phenytoin, is also used to control tonic-clonic seizures and partial seizures.

Dilantin works by slowing seizure-causing impulses in the brain. However, even though Dilantin is highly effective and has been the go-to drug for epilepsy treatment, it has some possible side effects and complications.

Among other side effects, Dilantin cerebellar ataxia is a potential complication of taking Dilantin. Long-term use of Dilantin has been linked with ataxia as well as cerebellar atrophy.

Dilantin cerebellar atrophy occurs when part of the brain degenerates as a result of long term Dilantin use. When the atrophy is focused in a certain area it is focal atrophy; when it occurs all over the brain, it is considered generalized atrophy.

This can cause a whole host of problems. One of these problems is ataxia.

Dilantin cerebellar ataxia is when the part of the brain that affects movement and coordination degenerates as a result of Dilantin use. The cerebellum controls voluntary movements like posture, balance, speech and coordination.

The cerebellum also regulates smooth and balanced body movement.

Dilantin cerebellar ataxia is a set of symptoms, rather than a specific diagnosis. It is characterized by unsteadiness of movement and lack of muscle coordination. Dilantin cerebellar ataxia can present with a lack of balance, slow movements, tremors, shaking and unstable eye movements. An unsteady, lurching walk may also be a symptom of cerebellar ataxia.

Research shows that the link between Dilantin use and Dilantin cerebellar ataxia as well as Dilantin cerebral atrophy is more significant after long-term use of the drug. The link is also stronger when the drug serum levels are above a therapeutic range.

The journal Seizure published a study in 2003 that noted that longer exposure to phenytoin, including longer duration of treatment as well as higher dosing, was linked with moderate to severe atrophy.

It is thought that the drug may accumulate in the cerebral cortex over long periods of time which results in toxicity. This can lead to the degeneration of certain parts of the brain, inciting Dilantin cerebellar ataxia or other neurological complications.

If you or someone you love has taken Dilantin and has experienced Dilantin cerebellar ataxia or symptoms that are similar to ataxia, you may benefit from discussing your options with an experienced Dilantin lawyer. You may be entitled to compensation for your Dilantin cerebellar ataxia injuries.