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Phenytoin Injection

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • prevent seizures
  • seizures

Generic Name: Phenytoin

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

You must be monitored by a health care professional during and after each dose is given.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all your medicines. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines.

Contact your doctor if your seizures do not improve or worsen while on this medicine.

Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine. Check with your doctor before stopping.

If you need to stop this medicine, your doctor may wish to gradually reduce the dosage before stopping.

This medicine may affect your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor before changing the dose of your diabetes medicine.

Visit your dentist regularly. Proper care of your teeth is very important while taking this medicine. Brush your teeth and floss regularly.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Do not drink beverages with alcohol while on this medicine.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

Do not start or stop any other medicines without first speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • headaches
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • nausea

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • decreased awareness or responsiveness
  • loss of balance
  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest pain
  • swelling of the face, mouth, tongue or throat
  • fainting
  • fever
  • flu-like symptoms
  • blue coloring of hands or feet
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • itching
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • uncontrollable movement of face, tongue, arms or legs
  • tight or rigid muscles
  • red, burning, or itchy skin
  • shakiness
  • shortness of breath
  • red, peeling or blistering skin
  • difficulty speaking
  • difficulty swallowing
  • unsteadiness while walking
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.