Dilantin Overdose

If you take too much Dilantin, overdose symptoms may include shakiness, slurred speech, coordination problems, and nausea or vomiting. Treatment for a Dilantin overdose will vary depending on several factors, but may include giving certain medications, "pumping the stomach," or administering supportive care.

 

An Introduction to Dilantin Overdose

Dilantin® (phenytoin) is a prescription medication used to treat seizures in people with epilepsy. The effects of a Dilantin overdose will vary depending on a number of factors, including how much of the drug was taken and whether it was taken with any other medicines, alcohol, or street drugs.
 
If you happen to overdose on Dilantin, seek immediate medical attention.
 

Symptoms of a Dilantin Overdose

If a person overdoses on Dilantin, the symptoms can vary. Some commonly reported symptoms of an overdose of a phenothiazine (such as Dilantin) include:
 
  • Unusual eye movements
  • Coordination problems
  • Joint pain
  • Shakiness (tremors)
  • Overactive reflexes
  • Lethargy
  • Slurred speech
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Coma
  • Low blood pressure
  • Loss of life.
     

Treatment for a Dilantin Overdose

The treatment for a Dilantin overdose will vary. If the overdose was recent, a healthcare provider may give certain medicines or place a tube into the stomach to "pump the stomach." Dialysis may also be helpful. Treatment also involves supportive care, which consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For example, supportive treatment options may include:
 
  • Fluids through an intravenous line (IV)
  • Careful monitoring of blood pressure
  • Other treatments based on complications that occur.
     
It is important that you seek medical attention immediately if you believe that you may have overdosed on Dilantin.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;