Dilantin (phenytoin) is used as an anti-convulsant in the treatment of seizure activity for epilepsy patients. Dilantin works by slowing the electrical impulse activity in the brain that triggers seizures. If Dilantin is withdrawn from a patient, possible side effects can result from that withdrawal. Although withdrawal symptoms may not be as great as those experienced by patients in alcohol or barbiturate withdrawal, a few withdrawal effects have been noted.
No Evidence of Withdrawal Symptoms
No "convincing evidence of withdrawal symptoms" came from a 1988 study by the Institute of Neurology in England when 38 patients stopped Dilantin use after one to eight months of use. The "Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry" report on the study stated that one possible reason for the scarcity of withdrawal symptoms could be that so few patients were studied.
Gradual Reduction Advised
Patients should not stop taking Dilantin without first checking with their doctors, according to Mayo Clinic. The Mayo Clinic states that the prescribing physician may want patients to ramp down the use of the drug by gradual reduction of dosage before stopping the treatment.
Seizure Activity
Since Dilantin is used to stop seizure activity, seizure activity may restart if a patient stops using it, according to Drugs.com. Increased risk of side effects from stopping Dilantin is most notably centered on seizure activity, according to the website.
Rare Possible Side Effects
A few possible reactions to withdrawing from Dilantin were found in the 1988 study reported by the "Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry." Of the 38 patients who stopped using Dilantin, two reported increased tension, two reported shaking, and two reported palpitations when Dilantin was quickly reduced. Three reported increased anxiety. When Dilantin was gradually reduced, three reported increased anxiety, three reported increased tension, three were depressed, two felt nauseous and one felt palpitations.
