Phenytoin or diphenylhydantoin is both an anticonvulsant and an antiarrhythmic drug forming part of the class of drugs known as class 1C antiarrhythmics (sodium channel blockers). Phenytoin calms overstimulated nerves in the brain and heart. It is prescribed to treat epilepsy and cardiac arrhythmia.
Phenytoin and the benefit of DNA analysis
The rate at which phenytoin is processed within your body varies from one individual to another. This means that the efficacy and side effects of phenytoin can be predicted to some extent on the basis of your genes.
Preventive DNA analysis can therefore be an important tool in optimising your medication.
Phenytoin and the enzyme CYP2C9
Phenytoin is processed to a large extent by the enzyme CYP2C9. The activity of this enzyme can vary considerably depending on your genetic predisposition, which means the efficacy of phenytoin can also differ from person to person.
Mutations in the HLA-B*1502 gene may also be responsible for a hypersensitivity reaction to treatment with phenytoin.
Information about your genetic predisposition may therefore provide grounds for extra vigilance in relation to a treatment with phenytoin.
Read more about CYP2C9 enzyme »
Also known as
Fenytoin suspension, suspensie FNA, Diphantoïne-Z, Epanutin, Diphantoïne, Diphenylhydantoin, Fenitoina, Phenytoine, Phenytoinum, Epanutin, Eptoin, Dilantin