noun
- A synthetic organic compound used as an anticonvulsant medication to prevent and treat seizures, particularly in epilepsy.
Usage: pharmaceutical/medical term; also known by brand name Dilantin; commonly used in clinical and educational contexts
Examples
- The neurologist prescribed phenytoin to control the patient's seizures.
- Phenytoin is one of the oldest anticonvulsant drugs still in use today.
- Blood levels of phenytoin must be monitored regularly to ensure therapeutic effectiveness.
- Phenytoin can interact with many other medications, so drug interactions should be checked carefully.
- The patient experienced side effects from phenytoin, including gum overgrowth and dizziness.