Are you taking Phenytoin? Are you aware of the dangers of combining Phenytoin with alcohol? Drug-food-interactions are seldom discussed but can lead to undesirable side effects and potentially diminish the efficacy of the medication.
National Institute on Alcohol and Alcoholism. (2014) Harmful Interactions: Mixing Alcohol With Medicines.
Go to source).
References
1. National Institute on Alcohol and Alcoholism. (2014) Harmful Interactions: Mixing Alcohol With Medicines. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/harmful-interactions-mixing-alcohol-with-medicines
2. National Library of Medicine: Phenytoin MedlinePlus Drug Information.https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682022.html#
Phenytoin Interactions with Alcohol
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Phenytoin because it can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness and increased risk of seizures (1✔ ✔Trusted SourceNational Institute on Alcohol and Alcoholism. (2014) Harmful Interactions: Mixing Alcohol With Medicines.
Go to source).
When and How to Take Phenytoin
- Phenytoin is available in the form of a extended-release (long-acting) capsule, a chewable tablet, and a suspension to be taken orally.
- The chewable tablet and suspension are usually taken twice or thrice a day.
- The extended-release capsules are usually taken one to four times a day.
- Swallow the extended-release capsules as a whole instead of crushing, chewing or breaking them. Do not take discolored capsules.
- Take the medication at the same time every day for better results.
- Follow the directions exactly as given on the prescription label.
- Do not exceed or skip a dose. If you miss it, take the medication as soon as remembered.
- Do not double the dose at a time to compensate for a missed dose (2✔ ✔Trusted Source
National Library of Medicine: Phenytoin MedlinePlus Drug Information.
Go to source).
References
1. National Institute on Alcohol and Alcoholism. (2014) Harmful Interactions: Mixing Alcohol With Medicines. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/harmful-interactions-mixing-alcohol-with-medicines
2. National Library of Medicine: Phenytoin MedlinePlus Drug Information.https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682022.html#
