Phenytoin (injection)

Generic name: phenytoin (injection) [ FEN-i-toyn ]
Brand names: Dilantin, Phenytoin Sodium, Prompt
Dosage form: injectable solution (50 mg/mL)
Drug classes:Group I antiarrhythmics, Hydantoin anticonvulsants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Oct 5, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is phenytoin?

Phenytoin injection is an anticonvulsant medication that is used to treat a prolonged seizure (status epilepticus). Phenytoin injection is also used to prevent seizures during a surgery.

Phenytoin injection may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

A phenytoin injection may cause life-threatening heart problems. phenytoin is usually given by injection only if you are unable to take the medicine by mouth.

If possible before you receive a phenytoin injection, tell your caregivers if you have ever had serious heart problems, or slow heartbeats that have caused you to faint.

Your heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and other vital signs will be watched closely. Tell your caregiver if you feel weak, light-headed, or short of breath during or after an injection.

Before taking this medicine

If possible before you receive a phenytoin injection, tell your caregivers if you have ever had:

• a heart condition called 2nd or 3rd degree "AV block";

• slow heartbeats that have caused you to faint;

• liver problems caused by phenytoin; or

• if you currently take delavirdine (Rescriptor).

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver or kidney disease;

• diabetes;