Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Phenytoin, a widely used anticonvulsant, is known for it’s complex pharmacokinetics and a narrow therapeutic index, which can predispose patients to toxicity. While it’s primary mechanism of action involves blocking voltage-sensitive sodium channels, the drug’s effects extend beyond seizure control, impacting various neurological and psychiatric functions. We report a patient who was showing toxicity symptoms in the form of mood, behaviour, and cognitive symptoms, with certain cerebellar signs. The patient’s serum phenytoin was found to be quite high (>40.0 ng/ml). The symptoms were attributed to phenytoin toxicity, which responded within 2 weeks by reducing the dose of phenytoin (with a resultant fall in levels of serum phenytoin) and the addition of folic acid.
Source: Bengal Journal of Psychiatry
Authors: Shrabosti Pal, Arnab Biswas, Siddhartha Sankar Saha
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4415322862