# Phenytoin (Phenytoin Sodium)

Source: https://ourhealthnetwork.com/drugs/phenytoin
Data: FDA Orange Book and OpenFDA, refreshed periodically

## What is Phenytoin?

Phenytoin (brand name: Phenytoin Sodium) is a prescription medication used to treat epilepsy and tonic-clonic. Across the United States, 4,000 doctors prescribe Phenytoin to approximately 139 Medicare patients.

## Brand names

Phenytoin Sodium

## Indications

Phenytoin is prescribed for several conditions including epilepsy, tonic-clonic, status epilepticus, among others.

## Conditions treated

- [Epilepsy](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/epilepsy)
- [Tonic-Clonic](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/tonic-clonic)
- [Status Epilepticus](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/status-epilepticus)
- [Epilepsy](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/epilepsy)
- [Temporal Lobe](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/temporal-lobe)

## Mechanism of action

The precise mechanism by which phenytoin exerts its therapeutic effect has not been established but is thought to involve the voltage-dependent blockade of membrane sodium channels resulting in a reduction in sustained high-frequency neuronal discharges.

## Drug classification

- Established Pharmacologic Class: Anticonvulsant
- Route of administration: INTRAMUSCULAR

## Common side effects

Contact your doctor or pharmacist for complete side effect information for this medication

## Sources and disclaimers

- FDA Orange Book and OpenFDA dataset
- This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

## Related

- [All drugs](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/drugs)
- [Find specialists who prescribe this drug](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/find-doctors)
- [Methodology](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/methodology)