Dilantin (die-LAN-tin) is the brand name used in the United States, Canada, Australia, and some other countries for the seizure medicine phenytoin (FEN-ih-toe-in). In the UK, the brand name Epanutin is used for phenytoin.

Developed in 1938, Dilantin remains a widely used seizure medicine due to its

• success at controlling many types of seizures
• low cost
• ease of use

Forms
Dilantin is manufactured in the United States by Pfizer. The name or appearance may differ in other places. The dose (measured in milligrams, abbreviated "mg") will usually be the same. These descriptions apply to the U.S. versions:

Capsules
The most common form is capsules, which must be swallowed whole, not chewed or opened. Dilantin brand capsules (called Kapseal) are available in two sizes 30 milligrams, which will remain unchanged, and 100 milligrams -- please note the change on the 100 mg.

	30-mg (clear) Capsules with a pink band
	100-mg (clear) Kapseal -- Original to be discontinued Capsules with an orange band
	100-mg New look -- to replace Kapseal Capsules half orange and half white

Tablets (chewable)

Dilantin Infatabs 50-mg (yellow, triangular, scored)

Liquid
Dilantin-125 suspension 125 mg per 5 mL (orange)
Liquid has an orange-vanilla flavor.

How to take and store Dilantin
Capsules should be swallowed whole, not chewed or broken open. Store them at a temperature below 86°F (30°C) and protect them from light and dampness. Don't use capsules that are discolored.

Dilantin tablets (called Infatabs) are flavored, so they can be either swallowed whole or chewed before being swallowed. They also should be stored at a temperature below 86°F (30°C) and protected from moisture.

The liquid, Dilantin-125 suspension, should be stored at room temperature, between 68º and 77ºF (20°-25°C), and protected from light and from freezing. Shake the bottle thoroughly just before measuring. Use a standard-size medicine spoon or dropper to get an accurate dose.

Be careful if the doctor writes a new prescription using a different kind of pill. For example, if you've been using 30-mg capsules and the new prescription is for 100-mg capsules, be careful to use the correct number. Don't automatically continue to use the same number of pills as before.

All three forms of Dilantin can be taken either with food or without food, but it's important to be consistent day in and day out. People who usually take Dilantin with food should try to do that all the time, because it affects the way the medicine is used by the body.

What if I forget?
A forgotten dose should be taken right away, unless it is almost time for the next one. In that case, just use one dose, not a double dose, and call the doctor's office for more advice.

Do your best to follow the doctor's directions. If you forget doses often, it may be a good idea to get a special pillbox or watch with an alarm to remind you. Or ask the doctor whether you can switch to Phenytek, which has the same type of seizure medicine (phenytoin) as Dilantin, but in a form that you need to take only once a day.

Taking the right amount of seizure medicine on time every single day is the most important step in preventing seizures!