Dilantin (phenytoin) is an anticonvulsant drug used to treat seizures such as those that arise from epilepsy. Dilantin slows down the electrical impulses in the brain that cause seizures. That slowing of brain activity can also have the effect of slowing cognition and interfering with other brain activity. Dilantin has several side effects on cognitive abilities.
Confusion
Dilantin can cause confusion, according to the Mayo Clinic. It may also cause irritability, nervousness and difficulty with thought processes that are normally easily handled.
Slowed Thinking and Memory Problems
Dilantin can cause thinking processes to slow down in problem solving as well as in attending to a task, according to the National Institutes of Health, who go on to state that Dilantin can also cause memory difficulties for the patient. The difficulties were found to be in the slowdown of central "higher cortical" processing systems. Both short-term and long-term memory problems can develop for those who take Dilantin.
Mood and Behavior
Dilantin can produce suicidal thoughts, according to Drugs.com. The website states that mood and behavior changes as a side effect of Dilantin can include anxiety, depression, agitation, restlessness and hyperactivity.
Hallucinations
Overdosing on Dilantin can cause hallucinations, according to Drugs.com. Other cognitive side effect problems due to an overdose include difficulty with speech and coordination, and difficulty getting the body to respond properly to the brain's signals, so that both voluntary muscle movements and involuntary tremors, shakes and Parkinsonian movements may result.
