⚡ PHENYTOIN 50 mg TABLET: STEADYING THE ELECTRICAL STORM ⚡

Trusted Therapy for Seizure Control Since the 20th Century

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What is Phenytoin 50 mg?

Phenytoin 50 mg is a prescription antiepileptic medication used to prevent and control certain types of seizures. It belongs to the class of drugs known as hydantoins. Phenytoin is especially effective for managing tonic-clonic (grand mal) and focal (partial) seizures. The 50 mg dose provides flexible titration, particularly beneficial in children, the elderly, or those needing gradual dose adjustments.

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How It Works

Phenytoin works by stabilizing neuronal membranes and reducing electrical excitability in the brain. It blocks voltage-gated sodium channels, preventing the repetitive firing of action potentials that can lead to seizures. This helps normalize brain activity and decrease seizure frequency.

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Indications (Uses)

Phenytoin 50 mg tablets are used for:

• Tonic-Clonic (Grand Mal) Seizures

• Focal (Partial) Seizures

• Prevention of Seizures following head trauma or neurosurgery

• Adjunctive therapy in status epilepticus (after IV loading)

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Dosage and Administration

• Initial Dose: Often started at 50 mg 2–3 times daily, adjusted based on clinical response and plasma levels.

• Route: Oral; tablets should be swallowed with water, with or without food.

• Target Plasma Level: 10–20 µg/mL for optimal seizure control.

Note: Dosing should be individualized, especially in patients with liver disease, children, or those on interacting medications.

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Advantages

✅ Effective, time-tested seizure control
✅ Smaller 50 mg dosage ideal for titration and pediatric use
✅ Long half-life allows less frequent dosing
✅ Cost-effective and widely available

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Potential Side Effects

Common:

• Drowsiness or fatigue

• Nausea, vomiting

• Unsteady movement or dizziness

Long-Term:

• Gingival hyperplasia (gum overgrowth)

• Hirsutism (excess hair growth)

• Vitamin D deficiency → bone disorders

• Skin rashes, which can be serious (e.g., Stevens-Johnson Syndrome)

Serious (rare but important):

• Liver toxicity

• Blood disorders (e.g., leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)

• Neuropathy with prolonged use

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Warnings and Precautions

⚠️ Narrow therapeutic range – small dosage changes can cause toxicity or loss of seizure control.
⚠️ Must not be stopped suddenly – risk of seizure rebound.
⚠️ Use caution in liver disease, elderly, and pregnant women.
⚠️ May cause fetal harm – Pregnancy Category D.

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Drug Interactions

Phenytoin induces liver enzymes and affects many medications:

• ↓ Effectiveness of oral contraceptives

• Alters blood levels of warfarin, corticosteroids, cyclosporine, and more

• Alcohol: Chronic use reduces, acute intake increases phenytoin levels

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Monitoring Requirements

🩸 Plasma drug levels
🦷 Oral hygiene checks for gingival changes
🦴 Bone health assessments in long-term use
🧪 Liver function and blood counts

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Conclusion

Phenytoin 50 mg tablets offer precise seizure control with flexible dosing—perfect for fine-tuning therapy in sensitive patients. While highly effective, Phenytoin requires careful monitoring and patient education to ensure safety. With proper management, it remains a reliable mainstay in epilepsy treatment.