Dilantin (phenytoin) and Alcohol / Food Interactions
There are 2 alcohol/food/lifestyle interactions with Dilantin (phenytoin) which include:
Dilantin and Alcohol (Ethanol)
Moderate Drug Interaction
MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving phenytoin therapy should be warned about the interaction between phenytoin and ethanol and they should be advised to notify their physician if they experience worsening of seizure control or symptoms of toxicity, including drowsiness, visual disturbances, change in mental status, nausea, or ataxia.
Moderate Food Interaction
ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Phenytoin bioavailability may decrease to subtherapeutic levels when the suspension is given concomitantly with enteral feedings. The mechanism may be related to phenytoin binding to substances in the enteral formula (e.g., calcium, protein) and/or binding to the tube lumen. Data have been conflicting and some studies have reported no changes in phenytoin levels, while others have reported significant reductions.
MANAGEMENT: Some experts have recommended interrupting the feeding for 2 hours before and after the phenytoin dose, giving the phenytoin suspension diluted in water, and flushing the tube with water after administration; however, this method may not entirely avoid the interaction and is not always clinically feasible. Patients should be closely monitored for clinical and laboratory evidence of altered phenytoin efficacy and levels upon initiation and discontinuation of enteral feedings. Dosage adjustments or intravenous administration may be required until therapeutic serum levels are obtained.
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Dilantin (phenytoin) drug Interactions
There are 974 drug interactions with Dilantin (phenytoin)
Dilantin (phenytoin) disease Interactions
There are 9 disease interactions with Dilantin (phenytoin) which include:
See also...
Drug Interaction Classification
The classifications below are a general guideline only. It is difficult to determine the relevance of a particular drug interaction to any individual given the large number of variables.
| Major | Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit. |
| Moderate | Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances. |
| Minor | Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan. |
Do not stop taking any medications without consulting your healthcare provider.
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