Dilantin Side Effects

Confusion, muscle coordination problems, and unusual eye movements are some of the most common side effects reported with Dilantin. Side effects that are less common but potentially dangerous can include swollen or tender lymph nodes, high blood sugar, and unexplained bruising or bleeding. If you develop these or any other serious side effects, notify your healthcare provider right away.

Dilantin Drug Information

An Introduction to Dilantin Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Dilantin^® (phenytoin); however, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.

(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Dilantin. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Dilantin side effects with you.)

Common Side Effects With Dilantin

Dilantin has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.

In these studies, some of the most common side effects of Dilantin included:

Unusual eye movements
Muscle coordination problems
Slurred speech
Confusion.

Other possible Dilantin side effects can include:

Dizziness
Insomnia (see Dilantin and Insomnia)
Nervousness
Twitching
Headaches
Nausea, vomiting, or constipation
Larger or fuller lips
Problems with the gums (including swelling, tenderness, and unusual growth)
Excessive body or facial hair.

(Dilantin Side Effects Continued: Page 2)