Phenyltoin (Dilantin)

Photograph of Phenyltoin
 under the microscope.

Phenyltoin is a hydantoin anticonvulsant that is used to control convulsions and seizures in the treatment of epilepsy. The primary site of action of hydantoins appears to be the motor cortex, where the drugs tend to stabilize the threshold against hyperexcitability caused by excessive stimulation. Side effects include bleeding and tender gums, clumsiness, confusion, rolling eye movements, and mood changes.

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