Phenytek

Generic name:phenytoin (oral) [ FEN-i-toyn ]
Brand names: Dilantin, Phenytek
Drug classes:Group I antiarrhythmics, Hydantoin anticonvulsants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 31, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Phenytek?

Phenytek is an anticonvulsant medication that is used to control seizures. This medicine does not treat all types of seizures, and your doctor will determine if it is the right medicine for you.

Phenytek may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

You should not use Phenytek if you also take delavirdine (Rescriptor).

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Phenytek if you are allergic to it, or if you have ever had:

• liver problems caused by Phenytek;

• an allergy to similar medicines such as ethotoin, fosPhenytek, or mephenytoin; or

• if you currently take delavirdine (Rescriptor).

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• heart problems;

• liver disease;

• diabetes;

• depression;

• suicidal thoughts or actions;

• a vitamin D deficiency or any other condition that causes thinning of the bones;

• porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system); or

• if you are of Asian ancestry (you may need a special blood test to determine your risk for having a skin reaction to Phenytek).

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking Phenytek. Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms.

Seizure control is very important during pregnancy. Do not start or stop taking Phenytek without your doctor's advice if you are pregnant. Phenytek may harm an unborn baby, but having a seizure during pregnancy could harm both mother and baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant while taking this medicine.

If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of phenytoin on the baby.

If you have taken Phenytek during pregnancy, be sure to tell the doctor who delivers your baby about your this medicine use. Both you and the baby may need to receive medications to prevent excessive bleeding during delivery and just after birth.

Phenytek can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non-horm...