Epilepsy Patients Face Serious Side Effects from Dilantin

Depakote (valproic acid) is another drug used to limit seizures, but a novel study indicates that women who take it while pregnant will have less intelligent children. While it has been known that this class of drugs was linked to birth defects and mental problems, it is now quantified. Unlike Dilantin side effects, these lead children to have IQ’s 10 points lower than average. Considering complaints about the impact of socioeconomic status, it was controlled for in the study.
It is problematic because even Dilantin birth defect side effects are possible. Across all epilepsy drugs, the risk is about twice as high as for mothers without the condition. However, given the fact that seizures can severely impact a fetus, medications are still required. In that case, women may have to consider switching to other medications, hoping that Dilantin neurological side effects won’t be too problematic.

Similar risks exist with antidepressants, where SSRI birth defect side effects. In both cases, the disorders require consistent medication usage and the potential for Dilantin side effects. It can be a struggle for doctors and patients to try and make the right decision, including switching or tapering down the amount of medication used. With these changes, the risk of Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) grows, meaning potential skin lesions and esophageal and eye problems, if not worse.

Perhaps the most important thing may be to know what toxic epidermal necrolysis and SJS look like in their early stages. As noted in previous articles, there are rashes on the extremities that look like heat rash, as well as some flu-like symptoms. If any of these show up, it’s critical to go to the emergency room.

People who were unaware of the risk of Stevens Johnson Syndrome when taking Dilantin and other drugs may want to get a legal consultation. A free one is available at the Dilantin Stevens Johnson (SJS) & Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) Class Action Lawsuit Investigation when one fills out the short form there. These painful conditions can take years for patients to fully recover, so any legal remedy could help defray costs or take care of bills while people are out of work.