Phenytoin and Headaches: What Users Say

• D P...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• February 23, 2015

Phenytoin for Seizures "I had my first ever seizure on 8/4/93, one day before my 24th birthday, out of the 'clear blue.' I was first prescribed 400 mg of Dilantin daily. I experienced muscle spasms/twitches, sleeplessness at night, and sleepiness during my waking hours. I was switched to 400 mg of Phenytek daily. At first, the same symptoms persisted but subsided over time. I have been on both Dilantin and Phenytek for 22 years; currently on Phenytek, and my seizures are controlled, with minor/minimal side effects: occasional muscle twitching and/or headaches remedied with Tylenol. I hold down a full-time job, and I drive, so my #1 priority every night is to take my meds. So far, so good....."

• Anonymous
• March 14, 2010

Phenytoin for Seizures "I have been taking Dilantin for a few months now for both petit mal and grand mal seizures. I have experienced all of the side effects from the medication. My lymph nodes are swollen and very painful. It is making it difficult to talk. My whole face and neck are swollen as well. I have had painful headaches since two weeks after I started taking the medication. I have also had a fever for the past month, around 99 degrees to 100 degrees. This medication works for other members of my family, but it does not work for me."

• FRE...
• December 29, 2013

For Epilepsy "I have been taking Dilantin since I was 13 years old, now I am 66 years old. I take 360 mg at night. I haven't had a seizure (grand mal) for 33 years now. I get headaches sometimes (migraine). I sleep well. I am an active type of person. I swim, ride a bike, and go to the gym 3 times a week."

• coc...
• September 13, 2013

For Epilepsy "I am 37 years old and was diagnosed with epilepsy 5 weeks ago. I was put on the phenytoin capsules and take 300 mg at bedtime (which I take faithfully). Lately, I've noticed my energy level has increased and I haven't had a seizure in 8 days, but I notice I wake up with a headache, mostly in the back of my head. I also have been having some really weird dreams. It is 3 in the morning here and, of course, I awoke with a headache and a slightly stiffer neck."