Epilan P Tab

EPILAN P TAB by LUPIN LTD: Detailed Product Description

EPILAN P TAB is an anticonvulsant medication manufactured by Lupin Ltd., primarily used to manage and prevent seizures.

• Name

  • Brand Name: Epilan-P Tablet
  • Common Name (Active Ingredient): Phenytoin
  • Manufacturer: Lupin Ltd.

• Composition

  • Active Ingredient: Phenytoin (100mg)

• Uses EPILAN P TAB is prescribed for:

  • Epilepsy/Seizures: It controls various types of seizures, including complex partial (psychomotor) and tonic-clonic seizures. It is also used to prevent seizures during or after brain surgery or following a traumatic brain injury.
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia: Management of facial nerve pain.

• Dosage and Administration

  • Take EPILAN P TAB exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
  • It can be taken with or without food.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush, chew, break, or open it.
  • For once-daily dosing, take it at the same time each day.
  • Do not stop taking this medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may increase the frequency of seizures.
  • If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

• Side Effects

  • Common Side Effects: Weakness, drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, restlessness, slurred speech, constipation, loss of coordination, involuntary eye movements (nystagmus), nausea, vomiting, vertigo, and gum overgrowth (gingival hyperplasia).
  • Serious Side Effects (Seek medical attention immediately if experienced): Severe allergic reactions (e.g., swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat causing breathing difficulties), severe skin rashes (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome), signs of blood abnormalities (e.g., bruising, fever, pale skin), cardiac arrest, or suicidal thoughts.

• Precautions

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. It is generally advised against during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, and women of childbearing potential should use non-hormonal contraception. It is not recommended for breastfeeding women.
  • Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase side effects and affect the medicine's concentration.
  • Driving/Operating Machinery: Due to potential dizziness and drowsiness, avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you.
  • Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, diabetes, heart disorders, blood disorders, or depression.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including contraceptive pills, as they may interact with EPILAN P TAB.
  • Monitoring: Regular blood tests may be required to monitor drug levels and check for side effects.
  • Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene and visit a dentist regularly due to the risk of gum overgrowth.

• Storage

  • Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep it out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Store below 30°C.

EPILAN P TAB is a medication containing Phenytoin, an anti-epileptic drug primarily used to control and prevent seizures.

Here are some frequently asked questions about EPILAN P TAB:

1. What is EPILAN P TAB used for?

EPILAN P TAB is primarily used to treat and prevent various types of epilepsy, including tonic-clonic (grand mal) and psychomotor (temporal lobe) seizures. It can also be used to prevent seizures during or after brain surgery or a severe head injury. Additionally, it may be prescribed to treat trigeminal neuralgia, a condition causing facial nerve pain.

2. How does EPILAN P TAB work?

EPILAN P TAB works by stabilizing the electrical activity in the brain. It is an anticonvulsant that calms overactive nerves, thereby decreasing the abnormal and excessive electrical discharges in the nerve cells that lead to seizures. This helps to reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures.

3. What is the usual dosage for EPILAN P TAB?

The dosage of EPILAN P TAB is highly individualized and determined by your doctor based on your condition, age, body weight, and response to treatment. For adults, typical initial oral doses might range from 100 mg three times a day or 300 mg once a day, with adjustments made as needed, often not exceeding 600 mg daily. Children's doses are calculated based on age and body weight, starting around 5 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight in 2 or 3 divided doses daily. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor phenytoin levels and ensure the correct dosage and prevent toxic effects.

4. What are the possible side effects of EPILAN P TAB?

Common side effects can include decreased coordination, mental confusion, slurred speech, unsteadiness, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, skin rash, and uncontrollable eye movements. Overgrowth of the gums (gingival hyperplasia) is also a common side effect, especially in children, and requires good oral hygiene. More serious side effects, though less common, can include severe skin reactions (like Stevens-Johnson syndrome), liver problems, heart problems (such as a slow heartbeat), blood count abnormalities, lymph node issues, and even suicidal thoughts. It's crucial to contact your doctor if you experience any concerning or severe side effects.

5. Is EPILAN P TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: EPILAN P TAB (Phenytoin) may cause serious birth defects, collectively known as Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome. The risk of major malformations, such as cleft lip/palate and club foot, is increased. It is often considered contraindicated during pregnancy. However, uncontrolled seizures also pose significant risks. If this medication is deemed necessary during pregnancy, the lowest effective dose should be used, and high-dose folic acid supplementation is strongly recommended. Effective birth control methods should be discussed with your doctor if you are taking this medication and are of childbearing potential.

Breastfeeding: Phenytoin generally passes into breast milk in low levels and usually does not cause problems for breastfed infants when used as monotherapy. Breastfeeding is often considered acceptable. However, infants should be monitored for any signs of drowsiness, poor feeding, or other unusual effects, especially if the mother is taking other sedating medications. It is important to discuss this with your doctor.

6. Can EPILAN P TAB be taken with other medications?

EPILAN P TAB has numerous drug interactions. It can affect how other medications work and vice versa. It can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills), requiring alternative birth control methods. It can also decrease the effect of anticoagulants, certain antibiotics, and some antidepressants. Conversely, some medications, such as certain antifungals, other antibiotics, and certain antidepressants, can increase phenytoin levels, leading to increased side effects. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

7. What precautions should be taken while using EPILAN P TAB?

Do not stop taking EPILAN P TAB abruptly, as this can lead to an increase in seizure activity, potentially causing life-threatening status epilepticus. Dosage changes or discontinuation should always be done under a doctor's supervision. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor phenytoin levels in your body. Due to potential dizziness or drowsiness, exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you. Maintain good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing regularly) and see your dentist frequently to manage the risk of gum overgrowth. Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can increase side effects.

8. What happens if a dose of EPILAN P TAB is missed?

If you miss a dose of EPILAN P TAB, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you miss two or more doses, contact your doctor for advice.

9. How should EPILAN P TAB be stored?

EPILAN P TAB should be stored in its original closed container at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep it away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the medication. Always ensure it is kept out of the reach of children.