Cancer Medications

Phenytoin

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Special Instructions

  • Good mouth care is needed daily. A soft toothbrush, electric toothbrush, water pik or toothette is good for gum massage. Tell the dentist that your child is taking phenytoin. Your child may need to see the dentist more often.
  • Do not give phenytoin within 1 hour before or after milk or formula. (This includes tube feedings.) Phenytoin does not work as well if given at the same time as milk or formula.
  • If your child gets the liquid form, shake it well before each dose.
  • Give only as directed. Do not stop giving this medicine unless directed by your child's doctor.
  • Notify your child's doctor if your child becomes pregnant, is planning to become pregnant, or is breast feeding a baby.
  • Taking other medications, prescription or over-the-counter (OTC), can change the amount of phenytoin in the blood. Do not give any other medicine to your child without talking to your child's doctor or pharmacist.
  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
  • Your child's doctor may want your child to carry a medical identification (I.D.) card, necklace or bracelet showing information about this medication if your child is taking this medication for a seizure disorder.
  • Make sure that you get the medication refilled before the last dose is given. Check your supply for vacations and holidays.
  • In order for your child's doctor to make sure the medicine is working, it is important to have your child seen regularly for checkups.
  • A blood test may be needed to check the level of medicine in the body. It is best to get this blood test in the morning before your child takes any medicine.
  • Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle/package.
  • Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
  • If too much medicine is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately.

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If a Dose is Missed

For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and/or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
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Common Side Effects

Call your child's doctor if the following effects continue or are bothersome:
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Unsteadiness
  • Gum swelling, tenderness, or bleeding
  • Extra hair growth
  • Upset stomach
  • Weight loss
  • Constipation

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Warning Signs

Call your child's doctor immediately if your child:
  • Develops a rash
  • Easily bruises or has unusual bleeding
  • Has severe nausea and vomiting
  • Is sleeping more than usual or is difficult to awaken
  • Heart racing
  • Extreme dizziness or fainting
  • Increased seizure frequency
  • Becomes confused

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Contact us

For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.

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Patient Education Program V 5037 8/89
Rev. 10/05, 8/07