dilantin

Pregnant women and people who are allergic to this drug should be very careful not to accidentally take it. Because this drug has a higher risk for causing birth defects, pregnant women should wear disposable gloves when giving doses or handling the drug and avoid inhaling any dust from split or crushed tablets. Skin or eyes exposed to powder or liquids containing the drug should immediately be washed or rinsed off thoroughly and your physician contacted.

Anticonvulsant; Antidysrhythmic

Phenytoin may be used in dogs, cats, and horses to treat certain seizure disorders or heart rhythm problems. The FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration) has approved this drug for use in humans but it is not officially approved for use in animals. The FDA allows veterinarians to prescribe products containing this drug in different species or for other conditions in certain situations. You and your veterinarian can discuss why this drug is the most appropriate choice.

• Store this medication in the original prescription bottle or an approved dosage reminder container (ie, pill minder) at room temperature and protected from light.

• If your veterinarian or pharmacist has made (compounded) a special formulation for your animal, follow the storage recommendations and expiration date for the product.

• Keep away from children and other animals.

• Animals receiving this drug will need periodic blood tests to check for toxicity and/or levels of the drug in the blood. Do not miss these important follow-up visits.

• Use of this drug may not be allowed in certain animal competitions. Check rules and regulations before entering your animal in a competition while this medication is being administered.

Side effects that usually are not serious include:

• Dogs: Reduced appetite, sleepiness, incoordination (eg, stumbling, clumsiness), weakness, vomiting, and gum overgrowth can be seen.

• Horses: Sleepiness and low energy level.

You don’t have to be overly concerned if you see any of these signs unless they are severe, worsen, or continue to be a problem. Contact your veterinarian if this happens.

Side effects that may be serious or indicate a serious problem:

• Dogs: Lack of an appetite, severe vomiting, or a yellowish tint in the whites of the eyes, skin, or gums.

• Cats: Reduced platelets may cause unexpected bleeding (eg, blood in stool, vomit), incoordination (eg, stumbling, clumsiness), weakness, sleepiness, reduced appetite.

If your animal develops any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.