Dilantin, or the generic name phenytoin, is commonly used for treatment of epilepsy. Epilepsy.com calls it the first-line medication for seizures in the United States. It is prescribed often because it is low in cost, effective against a variety of syndromes and easy to use. It is available in capsules, tablets, oral suspension and parenteral or injectable solution. Dilantin has other uses besides the treatment of epilepsy.
Trigeminal Neuralgia
The trigeminal nerve carries signals from the face to the brain. In trigeminal neuralgia, any type of stimulation to the face may cause extreme pain. The condition affects more women than men and is more common in those over the age of 50. Trigeminal neuralgia is caused when the functioning of the nerve is disrupted by pressure as from blood vessels, or less likely, a tumor. MayoClinic.com lists Dilantin as one of the anticonvulsant medications that can be prescribed to block the pain.
Diabetic Neuropathy
MayoClinic.com states that high blood sugar, common in diabetes, can adversely affect the nerves of the legs and feet by weakening the walls of the capillaries that bring blood to the nerves. This may affect the nerve signals to the brain. The injured nerves can cause pain and numbness in the extremities, in the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels, urinary system and heart. Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes. Epilepsy.com lists Dilantin as a drug to help in pain management of this condition.
Fabry's Disease
Cedars-Sinai describes Fabry's disease as genetically linked to the X chromosome. Fabry's disease affects metabolism due to an enzyme deficiency. Women may exhibit only mild symptomology, yet men may have a rash accompanied by opaque areas in the corneas, fever and pain in the extremities. Epilepsy.com states Dilantin as treatment for pain in Fabry's disease.
