Anticonvulsant (Anti-seizure medicine)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Phenytoin is a medicine that calms down abnormal electrical activity in the brain to prevent and control seizures (convulsions). It works by slowing down the nerve signals that cause fits.
Blocks voltage-gated sodium channels in neuronal membranes, stabilizing the inactive state and reducing repetitive neuronal firing. This decreases the spread of seizure activity and raises the seizure threshold in the brain.
Epilepsy (seizures/convulsions), prevention of seizures after brain surgery, status epilepticus (prolonged seizures that won't stop)
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as this can cause dangerous side effects.
Do not stop taking phenytoin suddenly on your own, as stopping abruptly can cause very dangerous non-stop seizures. Always buy from a licensed pharmacy and check the expiry date, avoiding roadside vendors or unregistered sellers. Phenytoin requires regular blood tests to make sure the level in your body is safe, so keep your hospital appointments.
Alcohol: drinking alcohol while on phenytoin can increase dizziness and make seizures harder to control, so avoid it. Antacids and ulcer drugs (like omeprazole or cimetidine) can change how phenytoin works in your body, so space them apart or ask your pharmacist. Some antibiotics and antimalarials can also interact, so always tell your doctor about every medicine you are taking.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Phenytoin with your other drugs?
Phenytoin is NOT safe during pregnancy as it can cause serious birth defects; if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor immediately about safer alternatives.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in a car or near a window. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from humidity. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.