Phenytek is one of the brand names for phenytoin, a medication used to control seizures and to aid in prevention of them. It affects channels of sodium in the brain and it prevents abnormal activity that includes unusual electrical impulses from spreading to other parts of the brain. This control of sodium, which is a body electrolyte needed for impulses in the body, helps to control or prevent seizures. Phenytek assists people to control seizures by only taking one slow-release capsule a day. One of the problems with seizure prevention medicine is that some patients are noncompliant and do not take the medication properly. Taking only one capsule a day helps patients comply.
Speech
Slurred speech is a neurological response to Phentytek caused by drowsiness and slowed responses within the brain. Because Phentytek decreases the amount of impulse activity in the brain, speech may be affected at times. You also may experience a sore throat that may add to speaking difficulties. These are serious side effects that may require medical help. Consult your doctor.
Eyes
Unusual eye movements also is a potential side effect of this medication. Because electrical impulses are slowed down in the brain neurologically, electrical impulses also are slowed to the eyes' nerve conduction activity. Conversely, Phentytek may cause you to not be able to move your eyes at all. Tell your doctor about such experiences.
Mental
Confusion also may be caused by this medication and should be monitored closely because it may be a sign of toxicity. Another type of serious mental side effect may be nervousness. Talk to your doctor if you experience these.
Other Serious Side Effects
There are many other potential side effects from Phentytek, any of which should send you to your doctor for help. They may include lack of coordination; swallowing or breathing problems; shakiness in the feet, legs, hands or arms; abnormal repetitive motions in the legs, tongue, arms, face or lips; abnormal expressions of the face; pain in the abdomen; skin blisters or peeling; diarrhea; chills; an irregular heartbeat; nausea; mouth irritation; pain in the muscles; fever; fainting; vomiting; headaches; loss of hair; stiffness in the muscles; difficulty or pain when urinating; loss of weight; abnormal bruising; tiredness; or bleeding and swelling of the gums.
Non-Serious Side Effects
Temporary side effects from Phentytek should disappear without medical treatment, but tell your physician if they persist. They include insomnia, painful erections, problems defecating, enlargement of the lips or excessive hair on the legs, forehead, arms or back.
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