Indications & Uses
Epitoin is indicated for:
Pharmacology
Phenytoin works as an anticonvulsant by promoting sodium ion efflux and limiting sodium ion influx across cell membranes in the motor cortex during nerve impulse generation. This stabilises neuronal membranes and reduces seizure activity. It also has antiarrhythmic effects, prolonging the effective refractory period, suppressing automaticity in the ventricular pacemaker, and shortening the heart's action potential.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
Adults: The starting dose is 200 mg (2 tablets) daily, increased to 400 mg daily in divided doses, up to a maximum of 600 mg per day. Alternatively, 3 to 4 mg/kg daily may be given in divided doses. For adults who have not received any previous medication, the usual treatment is one tablet three times daily, or as directed by the physician.
Children: The initial dose is 5 mg/kg per day, given in two or three equally divided doses. The dose is then adjusted for the individual child, up to a maximum of 300 mg daily. The recommended daily maintenance dose is usually 4 to 8 mg/kg. Children over 6 years of age require the minimum adult dose of 300 mg per day.
Side Effects
Skin rashes occasionally develop during treatment, but they clear once the medicine is stopped. Treatment can then be restarted at a lower dose. Other possible side effects include insomnia, slurred speech, short-lived nervousness, dizziness and headache.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
During long-term treatment, periodic blood tests are advisable. Treatment should be stopped if a skin rash appears. Hyperglycaemia has been reported, resulting from the drug's inhibitory effect on insulin release. Phenytoin should be used with caution in pregnancy and in breastfeeding mothers.
Contraindications
Phenytoin should not be used in patients who are hypersensitive to phenytoin or to other hydantoins.
Storage
Store Phenytoin Sodium below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Drug Interactions
Common questions about Epitoin 50 mg
What is Epitoin 50 mg Injection?
Epitoin 50 mg Injection is a medicine that contains Phenytoin Sodium. It is made by Ziska Pharmaceuticals Ltd. It belongs to the Adjunct anti-epileptic drugs group of medicines.
What is Epitoin used for?
Epitoin is used for: Epilepsy.
What are the side effects of Epitoin?
Skin rashes occasionally develop during treatment, but they clear once the medicine is stopped. Treatment can then be restarted at a lower dose.
How should I store Epitoin?
Store Phenytoin Sodium below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Can I take other medicines with Epitoin?
Some medicines can interact with Phenytoin Sodium, for example: Carbamazepine, Fluconazole, Metronidazole, Ciprofloxacin, Chloramphenicol, Theophylline. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take.
Do I need a prescription for Epitoin?
Epitoin is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.