Phenytoin and liver problems

[Kblue]

is any one out there on the anti seizure pill phenytoin and had problems with liver from this? what are the options if this is the case? Im very concerend about my husbands liver health.

Thanks in advance

[Hidden]

Hello KBlue.

I used to take Phenobarbitone but that led to depression. On examination I was prescribed Phenytoin Sulphate. However this was 1967 to 1973'ish. I was on a load of other things too. I just stopped taking the lot beginning of 1973 because I got really fed up with the whole shabang. Never had a fit either!

In later life I attended a well man clinic and my Liver Function Test was way out and has remained so. An in depth set of tests were done and I was told I have Gilbert's Syndrome [which means I excrete a lot of bile into my blood].

I have no idea why this is and I didn't ask the question re Phenytoin Sulphate because I didn't know. However I also used to suffer from massive headaches following my op. Not knowing any better I took them as though they were going out of fashion so there's a possible cause and effect also.

Do I care about this? Obviously I don't want this to get any worse so I watch what I do liver wise but as I've not turned yellow yet I think its still ok.

If you're worried I respectfully suggest you speak with your GP.

Regards

Paul

[rachel75]

Hi, I took phenytoin for 6 months after my brain haemmorage. I had a liver function test and it did come back abnormal. I was weaned off the medication as my doctor thought I no longer needed it and my liver went back to normal. I was told that if i had to stay on anti seizure drugs then it should be changed to something less harmful as phenytoin can cause liver damage. I would advise that you get a liver function test done to find out the extent of any damage and then ask your GP if their is somethin else your husband could take. I hope this helps and you get things sorted out. Take care xx

[Kblue]

Thank you so much my husband just had that test and we are going to see someone on friday re changing to aomething else i appreciate your feedback

[steve55]

kblue . . i take epilim but mine is for behavioural problems theres also carbamazapine.

there is a simple answer to this .......go and see your gp