Also Known as Epanutin
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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Dilantin Infatabs, also known by its generic name phenytoin, is a medication primarily used to control and prevent seizures in individuals with epilepsy. Dilantin belongs to a class of drugs called anticonvulsants, which work by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain, thereby reducing the occurrence of seizures. Dilantin Infatabs are a convenient form of the medication, available in orally disintegrating tablets, making them easy to administer, especially for individuals who may have difficulty swallowing traditional tablets.
Before you buy Dilantin Infatabs, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and effectiveness.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C15H12N2O2 |
License | US FDA (and others) |
Bioavailability | ~90% |
Legal status | Prescription (Rx) |
Chemical Name | Phenytoin |
Elimination half-life | 22-36 hours (can be highly variable) |
Dosage (Strength) | 50mg |
Pregnancy | Category D (potential risks, consult doctor) |
Brands | Dilantin Infatabs, Phenytoin Sodium, others |
Protein binding | 90-95% |
PubChem CID | 6147 |
MedlinePlus | Not Assigned |
ChEBI | CHEBI:16422 |
ATC code | N03AA01 |
DrugBank | DB00691 |
KEGG | D00788 |
Routes of administration | Oral |
Administer Dilantin Infatabs 50 mg exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The dosage prescribed will depend on various factors such as your age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.
Dilantin Infatabs should be taken orally, allowing the tablet to dissolve on the tongue, without the need for water. Do not chew or swallow the tablet whole.
Take Dilantin at the same time every day to keep a steady level in your body.
Do not stop taking Dilantin suddenly without asking your doctor, as it might increase your risk of seizures.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and stick to your usual schedule.
Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed one.
Each Dilantin Infatab contains the active ingredient phenytoin sodium.
Phenytoin uses include the treatment and prevention of seizures in individuals with epilepsy. Before taking Dilantin Infatabs, inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to phenytoin or similar medications. Discuss your medical history, particularly if you have a history of liver disease, porphyria, diabetes, or if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Dilantin may harm an unborn baby, so it is essential to use effective birth control while taking this medication. If you become pregnant while taking Dilantin, notify your doctor immediately.
Dilantin Infatabs may interact with a variety of medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. Some common medications that may interact with Dilantin include Anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin, Antidepressants such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), Antifungal medications like ketoconazole, Hormonal contraceptives, Corticosteroids, Certain antibiotics, Antacids containing calcium, Drugs that suppress the immune system. These are not the only medications that may interact with Dilantin. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medication while taking Dilantin Infatabs.
Like all medications, Dilantin Infatabs may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:
What is Dilantin Infatabs?
Dilantin Infatabs is a medication used to control or prevent seizures.
How is Dilantin Infatabs used?
This medication should be taken exactly as directed by your doctor. It must be taken regularly, even if you feel well.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of the medication, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular time.
Can I stop taking Dilantin Infatabs abruptly?
Do not stop taking this medication without checking with your doctor first.
What are the common side effects of Dilantin Infatabs?
Common side effects may include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Dilantin Infatabs?
This medication increases the effect of alcohol making you more sleepy, dizzy and lightheaded. Do not drink alcohol such as wine, beer or liquor while on this medication.
What should I do if I notice any adverse effects?
Contact your health care provider if you notice muscle weakness, extreme tiredness, a change in coordination, slurred speech, confusion, mood or mental changes, increased frequency of seizures, or any other unusual symptoms.
Can Dilantin Infatabs affect oral contraceptives?
This medication will prevent oral contraceptives (birth control pills) to not work properly. To avoid unwanted pregnancy, talk to your doctor about using another form of birth control.
Can I take Dilantin Infatabs during pregnancy?
Talk to your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. This medication can harm your baby.
What forms does Dilantin Infatabs come in?
Dilantin Infatabs comes in a 50 mg tablet form. There are also Dilantin suspensions available in 30 mg/5 ml and 125 mg/5 ml strengths.