Dilantin Dosage Guide: Forms, Potencies, Administration Tips, and More

Dilantin (phenytoin) is a prescribed medication designed to control certain seizure disorders. It is available in multiple forms, including liquid suspension, oral capsules, and chewable tablets. The dosage prescribed will depend on various factors, including the form you are taking.

Dilantin is commonly prescribed for both adults and children to:

• manage tonic-clonic seizures
• treat temporal lobe seizures
• prevent and control seizures occurring during or after brain surgery

The active component in Dilantin is phenytoin, which is classified as an antiepileptic drug.

This guide provides detailed information on Dilantin’s dosages, available strengths, and instructions on proper intake. For an in-depth understanding, consider consulting additional resources.

Understanding Dilantin Dosage

Here we outline the standard dosing protocols for Dilantin. Continue reading for detailed insights.

Available Forms of Dilantin

Dilantin is formulated in three primary forms:

• Extended-release oral capsules
• Oral liquid suspension
• Chewable tablets

Note: Extended-release capsules release medication gradually over an extended period.

Dilantin Strengths

The medication is offered in the following strengths:

• Oral capsules: 30 mg and 100 mg
• Liquid suspension: 125 mg per 5 mL
• Chewable tablets: 50 mg

Typical Dosage Guidelines

Dosing varies based on individual factors such as:

• Age
• Body weight (especially for pediatric patients)
• Medication form
• Blood concentration levels of Dilantin during therapy

Your healthcare provider will tailor your dosage for optimal effectiveness and safety, adjusting as necessary based on treatment response.

Adult Seizure Dosage

Below are common adult dosage recommendations, which may differ depending on the prescribed form. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Oral Capsules

Initial dosing usually starts at 100 mg extended-release capsules taken three times daily. Blood levels are typically monitored after 7 to 10 days to guide dosage adjustments. Maintenance doses often range from 100 mg three to four times daily, with potential increases up to two capsules three times daily if required.

If seizure control is achieved with 100 mg thrice daily, your doctor might suggest a single daily dose of 300 mg.

Liquid Suspension

Adults generally start with 125 mg (5 mL) taken three times daily. Blood monitoring after 7 to 10 days helps optimize dosing. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 25 mL.

Chewable Tablets

Initial dosing often involves two 50 mg chewable tablets (totaling 100 mg) three times daily. Blood levels are checked within 7 to 10 days, with maintenance doses ranging from 300 mg to 400 mg daily in divided doses. The upper limit is typically 600 mg daily (12 tablets), divided throughout the day.

Dosage for Pediatric Patients

Dilantin is prescribed for children to manage tonic-clonic and temporal lobe seizures and to prevent seizures related to brain surgery.

Dosing is calculated based on body weight (mg per kg). One kilogram equals approximately 2.2 pounds.

The dosing amount remains consistent across all forms, but the quantity administered varies by form.

Initial dosing is about 5 mg/kg/day, divided into two or three doses. Blood levels are monitored after 7 to 10 days, with adjustments up to a maximum of 300 mg daily.

Maintenance doses typically range between 4 mg/kg/day and 8 mg/kg/day. Children aged 6 to 17 may require the adult dosage of 300 mg daily. Your child’s healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose.

For more pediatric dosing information, consult your child’s physician or pharmacist.

Proper Administration of Dilantin

Dilantin is administered orally via capsules, liquid suspension, or chewable tablets. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding frequency and dosage.

Switching between forms may require dosage adjustments and blood level monitoring because capsules are extended-release, whereas suspension and tablets are immediate-release.

Capsules should be swallowed whole and not crushed to maintain proper drug release. Chewable tablets can be chewed or swallowed whole.

Use a proper measuring device for liquid suspension doses; household spoons are not accurate.

If you have any concerns about your prescribed form, consult your healthcare provider.

Long-Term Use Considerations

Dilantin is often prescribed for long-term management of tonic-clonic and temporal lobe seizures. For seizure prevention related to brain surgery, the duration of therapy will be determined by your doctor.

Discuss with your healthcare provider how long your treatment is expected to continue.

Overdose Information

Adhere strictly to prescribed dosages to avoid overdose risks.

Signs of Overdose

Symptoms may include:

• Involuntary eye movements (nystagmus)
• Difficulty with speech or walking
• Nausea and vomiting
• Tremors
• Muscle stiffness
• Blurred vision
• Low blood pressure

Severe overdose can result in coma.

Emergency Actions

If you suspect an overdose, contact your healthcare provider immediately. In the U.S., you can reach Poison Control at 800-222-1222 or access their online resources. For severe symptoms, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room without delay.

Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or modifying any medication regimen. Drug information is subject to change and may not cover all possible scenarios or interactions.

Discover the latest news and current events in Sexual Wellness as of 02-09-2024. The article titled " Dilantin Dosage Guide: Forms, Potencies, Administration Tips, and More " provides you with the most relevant and reliable information in the Sexual Wellness field. Each news piece is thoroughly analyzed to deliver valuable insights to our readers.

The information in " Dilantin Dosage Guide: Forms, Potencies, Administration Tips, and More " helps you make better-informed decisions within the Sexual Wellness category. Our news articles are continuously updated and adhere to journalistic standards.