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long-term Dilantin [phenytoin] use
Sun, 12/07/2014 - 23:13I have been taking phenytoin for grand mal seizures for 60 years. I have stayed with phenytoin because as long as I take it I have NO seizures, which makes me incredibly fortunate. Lately, though, I've really begun to be alarmed at all of the side effects that are now listed on the receipt/infosheet I get with each prescription. In the last 10 years I began to have osteopenia, and found that my vitamin D level was very low. I take lots of D, but still have a deficiency. Now my serum phenytoin levels have decreased, I guess a result of aging. I still am not having seizures, but my primary physician wants to increase my dosage. On the one hand, I don't want to risk having a seizure; on the other hand, I don't want to worsen the bone/vitamin D problem, and maybe start to experience some of the other side effects, some of which are quite serious on their own. The problem won't go away, and I'm sure my body will be even less efficient at processing phenytoin as I get older. I really am concerned.
Is anyone else out there in the same circumstance? I'd appreciate hearing how you have dealt with these issues.