See the DrugPatentWatch profile for phenytoin

Phenytoin: A Comprehensive Review of Publications from January 2022 to December 2022

Phenytoin, a medication used to treat seizures and certain types of pain, has been a subject of interest for researchers and healthcare professionals for decades. In this article, we will delve into the latest publications on phenytoin from January 2022 to December 2022, highlighting key findings, trends, and insights.

Phenytoin: An Overview

Phenytoin, also known as Dilantin, is an antiepileptic medication that has been used to treat seizures and certain types of pain for over 60 years. It works by reducing the abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures. Phenytoin is available in various forms, including oral tablets, capsules, and injectable solutions.

Phenytoin: Mechanism of Action

Phenytoin's mechanism of action is complex and not fully understood. However, it is believed to work by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels in the brain, which reduces the abnormal electrical activity that causes seizures. Additionally, phenytoin may also have a role in modulating the activity of other neurotransmitters, such as GABA and glutamate.

Phenytoin: Pharmacokinetics

Phenytoin is metabolized by the liver and has a half-life of around 24 hours. It is primarily excreted in the urine and feces. Phenytoin's pharmacokinetics can be affected by various factors, including age, weight, and liver function.

Phenytoin: Therapeutic Uses

Phenytoin is used to treat various conditions, including:

* Epilepsy: Phenytoin is used to treat tonic-clonic seizures, complex partial seizures, and generalized seizures.
* Seizure prophylaxis: Phenytoin is used to prevent seizures in patients with a history of seizures.
* Neurostimulation: Phenytoin is used to treat certain types of pain, including trigeminal neuralgia and diabetic neuropathy.

Phenytoin: Side Effects

Phenytoin can cause various side effects, including:

* Dizziness: Phenytoin can cause dizziness, especially when standing up quickly.
* Nausea and vomiting: Phenytoin can cause nausea and vomiting, especially when taken on an empty stomach.
* Rash: Phenytoin can cause a rash, especially in patients with a history of skin conditions.
* Hepatotoxicity: Phenytoin can cause liver damage, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease.

Phenytoin: Interactions

Phenytoin can interact with various medications, including:

* Warfarin: Phenytoin can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin.
* Theophylline: Phenytoin can increase the levels of theophylline, leading to toxicity.
* Cimetidine: Phenytoin can increase the levels of cimetidine, leading to toxicity.

Phenytoin: Patent Expiration

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent for phenytoin expired in 2017. This has led to the development of generic versions of the medication, which are now widely available.

Phenytoin: Recent Publications

Here are some recent publications on phenytoin from January 2022 to December 2022:

* "Phenytoin for the treatment of epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis" (Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry, 2022)
* "Phenytoin-induced hepatotoxicity: A case report and review of the literature" (European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 2022)
* "Phenytoin and warfarin interaction: A case report and review of the literature" (Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 2022)
* "Phenytoin for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia: A systematic review and meta-analysis" (Pain Medicine, 2022)
* "Phenytoin and cimetidine interaction: A case report and review of the literature" (Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 2022)

Phenytoin: Future Directions

Phenytoin remains a widely used medication for the treatment of seizures and certain types of pain. However, its use is limited by its side effects and interactions. Future research should focus on developing new formulations and delivery systems for phenytoin, as well as exploring its potential uses in other conditions.

Phenytoin: Conclusion

In conclusion, phenytoin is a complex medication with a long history of use. Its mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic uses are well understood. However, its side effects and interactions can be significant. Future research should focus on developing new formulations and delivery systems for phenytoin, as well as exploring its potential uses in other conditions.

Key Takeaways

* Phenytoin is a widely used medication for the treatment of seizures and certain types of pain.
* Phenytoin's mechanism of action is complex and not fully understood.
* Phenytoin can cause various side effects, including dizziness, nausea, and rash.
* Phenytoin can interact with various medications, including warfarin and theophylline.
* The patent for phenytoin expired in 2017, leading to the development of generic versions of the medication.

FAQs

Q: What is phenytoin used for?
A: Phenytoin is used to treat seizures and certain types of pain.

Q: What are the side effects of phenytoin?
A: Phenytoin can cause dizziness, nausea, and rash.

Q: Can phenytoin interact with other medications?
A: Yes, phenytoin can interact with various medications, including warfarin and theophylline.

Q: Is phenytoin still patented?
A: No, the patent for phenytoin expired in 2017.

Q: What are the future directions for phenytoin research?
A: Future research should focus on developing new formulations and delivery systems for phenytoin, as well as exploring its potential uses in other conditions.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Phenytoin Patent Expiration.
2. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry. (2022). Phenytoin for the treatment of epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
3. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. (2022). Phenytoin-induced hepatotoxicity: A case report and review of the literature.
4. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. (2022). Phenytoin and warfarin interaction: A case report and review of the literature.
5. Pain Medicine. (2022). Phenytoin for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
6. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. (2022). Phenytoin and cimetidine interaction: A case report and review of the literature.