The widely used anticonvulsant Dilantin has been linked with a number of serious issues. One of these side effects is Dilantin toxicity, which can cause problems like nausea, dizziness, lack of coordination, and may even lead to a coma.

Basics of Dilantin

Dilantin (also known by its generic name, phenytoin) is a popular anticonvulsant and anti-epilepsy oral medication manufactured by pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, Inc., and is used to control seizures. In order to reduce seizure activity in the brain, Dilantin works to slow down the rapid firing of the brain’s neurons that are indicative of a seizure.

Dilantin was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) back in 1953 for the treatment of seizures. In the decades since, Dilantin has become one of the most widespread options available for this purpose. Unfortunately, Dilantin has also been linked with some serious and potentially permanent side effects, including Dilantin toxicity and cerebellar atrophy.

What is Dilantin Toxicity?

Essentially, Dilantin toxicity occurs when a patient has such high levels of Dilantin in their body that it actually becomes harmful. In extreme cases, Dilantin toxicity can even lead to a coma. The NIH notes that very high levels of Dilantin may even lead to seizures, the same condition the drug is meant to control.

Symptoms of Dilantin toxicity may include the following:

• Fast, uncontrollable eye movements or double vision (nystagmus)
• Dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion
• Lack of coordination of fingers, hands, arms, legs, or body
• Slurred speech
• Nausea or vomiting
• Decreased appetite, decreased activity, abdominal bloating, or irregular jerky movements in children or the elderly

The use of phenytoin has also been linked in studies with a side effect known as Dilantin cerebellar atrophy, a severe degenerative brain condition. As cerebellar atrophy progresses, neurons and their connections are lost, which in turn affects essential movements like balance, coordination, posture, and speech.

The precision of these movements are lost over time, leading to unsteady walking, slow or slurred speech, and rapid eye movement, among others.

When a patient is exposed to higher levels of Dilantin, especially over a longer period of time, they face an increased risk of experiencing major side effects like Dilantin toxicity or cerebellar degeneration. However, this does not mean that patients taking normal or low levels of the drug do not also face some risk of these complications.

In order to treat these Dilantin side effects, some patients may simply need to stop taking Dilantin (only if monitored by a doctor). Unfortunately, in some cases, these side effects may have permanent consequences.

Cerebellar atrophy is a serious condition. In some cases, recovery may be possible if a patient stops taking Dilantin. However, in many cases, the atrophy may be permanent. One side effect is cerebellar ataxia, which is a loss of muscle coordination that is often permanent after damage to the cerebellum has occurred, says Mayo Clinic. 

Filing a lawsuit may be one way to help deal with the costs of managing Dilantin toxicity. Cerebellar degeneration can make life complicated for many people and may be disabling.

Managing the condition may require extensive therapy and care. Occupational therapy and movement therapy can help people with movement problems from cerebellar ataxia move around safely and comfortably. Some patients may require ongoing care for the rest of their lives.

Additionally, devices like wheelchairs and walkers can also become necessary. These devices can be extremely costly. Filing a Dilantin toxicity lawsuit can help you get the funds needed to provide these devices for your loved ones or yourself.

The financial hit of medical devices, on top of possible lost wages and decreased productivity, may be a serious financial strain, and filing a lawsuit can be helpful in managing these costs.

People with cerebellar ataxia have higher rates of anxiety and depression, which can take their own toll and can also require management. Ataxia patients who need help with daily tasks are especially at risk for anxiety and depression, says Healthline. 

Filing a Dilantin Lawsuit

A growing number of Dilantin users are turning to litigation, alleging that they were not adequately warned about various severe complications associated with the use of Dilantin.

If you or someone you love have suffered from side effects of Dilantin, including Dilantin toxicity, you may be able to file a lawsuit and pursue compensation. Of course, filing a lawsuit cannot take away the pain and suffering caused by Dilantin complications, but it can at least help to alleviate the financial burden incurred by medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

This article is not legal advice. It is presented
for informational purposes only.