Tag: Phenytoin

The elimination of phenytoin is a complex process, defying the simple categorization of many other medications. Answering the question, "Is phenytoin zero or first order?", is not straightforward, as this anticonvulsant exhibits dose-dependent, or non-linear, kinetics that transition between elimination orders based on plasma concentration.

According to the Merck Manual, increased body hair, known as hirsutism or hypertrichosis, can be a side effect of various medications. The question, **what drugs increase body hair?** is common for patients who notice unexpected changes while on a new treatment. Understanding which medications are responsible and the mechanism behind this growth is key to managing this side effect.

The cerebellum is particularly susceptible to toxic insults, with numerous medications documented to cause cerebellar dysfunction. A wide range of drugs, from common antiepileptics like phenytoin to chemotherapeutic agents, can induce a potentially devastating cerebellar syndrome characterized by impaired coordination and balance. Understanding what drugs cause cerebellar dysfunction is crucial for early detection and management.

Long-term use of corticosteroids like prednisone leads to facial rounding, or 'moon face,' in up to 80% of patients [1.3.3]. This article explores what drug changes your face shape, covering both unintentional medical side effects and intentional cosmetic alterations.

According to clinical studies, mexiletine significantly inhibits the metabolism of caffeine, leading to a 30-50% decrease in its elimination. Understanding **what drugs interact with mexiletine** is crucial for patients to manage potential side effects and maintain the medication's effectiveness.

Up to 99% of some drugs, such as the anticoagulant warfarin, are highly bound to proteins circulating in the blood plasma. Understanding **what drugs bind to plasma** is a foundational concept in pharmacology that determines a medication's availability, distribution throughout the body, and potential for significant drug interactions.

According to the FDA, phenytoin (Dilantin) can cause a range of severe and potentially fatal side effects, including serious dermatologic reactions, cardiac effects, and birth defects. While effective for controlling certain seizures, its complex pharmacology and narrow therapeutic window require careful management to minimize risk and prevent toxicity.

An estimated 0.3% to 0.5% of pregnant women have epilepsy, making medication safety a critical concern. Understanding **what pregnancy category is Dilantin** is vital for informed decision-making, especially since its use during pregnancy carries significant risks to a developing fetus.

Isaacs' syndrome is a rare neuromuscular disorder with only a few hundred reported cases [1.6.6]. The primary question for patients and clinicians is: what medication is used for Isaacs' syndrome to manage its debilitating symptoms like continuous muscle twitching and stiffness? [1.6.1, 1.6.2]

While carbamazepine is the standard first-line treatment for trigeminal neuralgia (TN), phenytoin has a documented history of use for nerve pain and continues to play a role, particularly in managing acute pain crises. Though its use has evolved, understanding when and how **is phenytoin used for trigeminal neuralgia** is vital for effective management.