Phenytek Uses (Cont.)

How Does Phenytek Work?

During a seizure, brain cells (neurons) may fire as many as 500 times a second, much faster than the normal rate of about 80 times a second. Phenytek works by affecting sodium channels in the brain. It does not prevent abnormal brain activity from starting; instead, it prevents the abnormal activity from spreading to other parts of the brain. This action helps to control seizures.
 

Phenytek Uses in Children

Phenytek is approved for use in children. It comes in two forms that are particularly useful for children (chewable tablets and an oral liquid). Talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using Phenytek in children.
 

Off-Label Phenytek Uses

On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Phenytek for something other than epilepsy. At this time, off-label Phenytek uses include the treatment of:
 
  • Nerve pain
  • Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
  • Migraine headaches (to prevent frequent migraines)
  • Seizure prevention in people who have a brain injury or brain cancer and have not actually experienced a seizure.
     

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;