Dilantin is used to control seizures and is frequently given to patients with epilepsy. Side effects vary and include dizziness, insomnia, rash and stomach pain. While Dilantin has been known to cause mental confusion, depression is not a known side effect of Dilantin. Although Dilantin was created to control seizures, it has actually been known to treat depression in some patients.
Dilantin Side Effects
Known side effects of Dilantin include issues related to the central nervous system, such as confusion, slurred speech, coordination problems, insomnia, dizziness, headaches and twitching. Stomach problems include nausea, vomiting and constipation. Rashes and fever can also develop and can be fatal if left untreated.
Depression Treatment
Dilantin was created in 1938 and was initially used to treat seizures. The drug became known as a treatment for depression in the 1950s when a man named Jack Dreyfus was put on it by his doctor to control his depression and racing thoughts. It worked so well for him that he started a campaign to get the FDA to change it's guidelines for Dilantin to include it as a recommended treatment for depression. The FDA didn't change the regulations, but Dilantin became known as an effective depression treatment.
Anxiety Treatment
Because Dilantin worked so well for depression, doctors began using it to treat anxiety because it is frequently related to depression. Dilantin has been shown to be an effective treatment for anxiety issues ranging from mild to extremely severe.
Treatment for Difficulty Concentrating
Studies have shown that Dilantin increases concentration and has even been shown to increase IQ when used over time. It has been effectively used to battle ADD and ADHD with a lower incidence of side effects than most treatments.
Side Effects if Treating Psychological Issues
If Dilantin is used to treat depression, anxiety or concentration problems, side effects will be the same as if Dilantin is being used to prevent seizures. When going off of Dilantin, however, psychological issues may increase in frequency and become more intense while the patient's body readjusts without medication.
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