How should I take phenytoin?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in
larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on
your prescription label.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release capsule. Swallow the pill
whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill
would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.
Do not use any phenytoin capsule or tablet that has changed colors. Call your doctor
for a new prescription.
The chewable tablet may be chewed, broken, or crushed before swallowing, or it may be
swallowed whole.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure
you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not
with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your
pharmacist for
one.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood may need to be tested on
a regular basis. You may also need a blood test when switching from one form of phenytoin to
another. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
If you are taking phenytoin to treat seizures, keep taking the medication even if you
feel fine. You may have an increase in seizures if you stop taking phenytoin. Follow your
doctor's instructions.
Do not change your dose of phenytoin without your doctor's advice. Tell your doctor if
the medication does not seem to work as well in treating your condition.
Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking
phenytoin, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who
treats you should know that you are taking a seizure medication.
Store phenytoin at room temperature away from moisture, light, and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose,
skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do
not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
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Medicare's drug plans are subsidized by the US federal government and offered through insurers.
