Phenytoin Sodium
Phenytoin Sodium is an established antiepileptic drug (anticonvulsant). It acts by promoting sodium efflux from neurons, stabilizing the threshold against hyperexcitability, and limiting the spread of seizure activity in the motor cortex.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be strictly individualized based on clinical response and serum drug levels (therapeutic range is typically 10 to 20 mcg/mL). Pediatric maintenance dose is usually 4 to 8 mg/kg/day divided into 2 or 3 doses.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Highly critical monitoring required. Neonates and infants exhibit variable metabolism.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 25 mg to 50 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 doses
- Tracking Notes
- Initial dose typically starts at 5 mg/kg/day and is carefully adjusted.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 40 mg to 80 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 doses
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor serum concentrations and watch for signs of toxicity such as nystagmus or ataxia.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 55 mg to 120 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 to 3 doses
- Tracking Notes
- Adjustments should be made in small increments due to non-linear saturation pharmacokinetics.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 80 mg to 160 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 to 3 doses
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure consistent brand formulation use, as bioavailability varies between different manufacturers.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Highly critical monitoring required. Neonates and infants exhibit variable metabolism. |
| 5-7 kg | 25 mg to 50 mg daily | Divided into 2 doses | Initial dose typically starts at 5 mg/kg/day and is carefully adjusted. |
| 8-10 kg | 40 mg to 80 mg daily | Divided into 2 doses | Monitor serum concentrations and watch for signs of toxicity such as nystagmus or ataxia. |
| 11-15 kg | 55 mg to 120 mg daily | Divided into 2 to 3 doses | Adjustments should be made in small increments due to non-linear saturation pharmacokinetics. |
| 16-20 kg | 80 mg to 160 mg daily | Divided into 2 to 3 doses | Ensure consistent brand formulation use, as bioavailability varies between different manufacturers. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to control generalized tonic-clonic (grand mal) and complex partial seizures, as well as to prevent and treat seizures during or after neurosurgery.
Generic Name
Phenytoin SodiumBranded Drug Names
Phenytoin Sodium is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.