Phenytoin is prescribed to help individuals managing epilepsy control seizures. It is also used to prevent seizures during and after brain surgery.

Seizures are uncontrollable electrical disruptions in the brain that occur suddenly. A seizure can alter your behavior, movements, and awareness. Suffering two or more unprovoked seizures at least 24 hours apart is known as epilepsy. Seizure types vary drastically in their range of symptoms and severity. On average, a seizure lasts from 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

It is important to note that phenytoin is not a cure for epilepsy. It controls electrical activity in the brain, which can help prevent and manage seizure symptoms of epilepsy and brain surgery.

Phenytoin has been shown to cause some mild side effects. If these adverse effects become severe or do not go away within a few days, talk to your health care provider.

Common side effects reported while taking phenytoin include:

• Insomnia
  
• Uncontrollable shaking in different parts of the body
  
• Behavioral changes
  
• Slurred speech
  
• Headaches
  

Anticonvulsant medication, such as phenytoin, may change mental health conditions (such as mood and behavior) in unexpected ways. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or other sudden changes in your mental health. Before starting treatment with phenytoin, or any other anticonvulsant, discuss the risks and benefits of the medication with your doctor.

Phenytoin is commonly administered as an extended-release oral capsule or suspension liquid. The exact dosage of your prescription may vary depending on your age and the specific medical problem being treated.

Oral capsules: For adults, the common starting dosage prescribed is 100 mg of phenytoin to be taken 3 times a day. This dosage may increase depending on your need and how well you tolerate the medication. Take the capsule whole with water.

Suspension (Liquid): For adults, one teaspoon (100 mg) of phenytoin should be taken 3 times a day. Use a measuring spoon to ensure an exact volume of liquid. Rinse the spoon and dosing cup with water after use.

Do not discontinue the use of phenytoin unless instructed to do so by your doctor. Additionally, do not increase your daily dosage of phenytoin unless given a specific order by your doctor. Follow the full course of treatment and take the medication exactly as prescribed.

Phenytoin is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not phenytoin is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for phenytoin to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.