Epanutin

What is it?

An anticonvulsant available as capsules and suspension, which belongs to a group called hydantoins which are similar in composition to barbiturates. White/purple, white/pink and white/orange capsules contain 25mg, 50mg and 100mg of phenytoin sodium respectively. All marked with capsule name and strength. Also, EPANUTIN SUSPENSION containing 30mg phenytoin per 5ml and EPANUTIN INFATABS containing 50mg phenytoin in the form of triangular, scored, yellow, chewable tablets.

Medical Uses

Prevention and treatment of grand mal (tonic clonic) epileptic seizures, partial (focal) epileptic seizures and seizures which may follow trauma to the brain due to neurosurgery or head injury. Also, trigeminal neuralgia.

Dosage

Adults, capsules, 3-4mg/kg body weight in first instance each day, gradually increasing until condition is controlled. Maintenance dose is in the order of 200-500mg in single or divided doses each day. Children, (all except newborn babies), 5mg/kg body weight in 2 divided doses, with a maintenance dose in the order of 4-8mg/ kg body weight each day. New-born babies, according to specialist care and titrate according to serum levels.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breast-feeding, liver disease. Adequate intake of vitamin D is necessary and drug should be stopped gradually.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Theophylline, analgesics, anticonvulsants, amiodarone, coticosteroids, antineoplastics, folic acid, anticoagulants of the coumarin group, antibacterials, vitamin D, chloramphenicol, antifungal drugs, antipsychotics, oral contraceptives, benzodiazepines, quinidine, disulfram, tolbutamide, antacids, ulcer drugs.

Known Side Effects

Upset stomach, lack of sleep, drowsiness, allergic effects, blood changes, slurring of speech, confusion, unsteadiness, swelling of gums and lymph glands; there may be unusual growth of hair (hirsutism) and motor activity. Rapid abnormal eye movements (nystagmus) may occur and drug should be withdrawn in the event of skin rash.