++
Intentional phenytoin overdose rarely leads to death, provided adequate supportive care is administered. Most phenytoin-related deaths have been caused by rapid IV administration and hypersensitivity reactions. Phenytoin toxicity may occur after single acute exposure, and also may occur in patients chronically using phenytoin. In patients using phenytoin, toxicity occurs after lesser ingestions because a large quantity of phenytoin is already present in the body.
++
The toxic effects of phenytoin depend on the duration of exposure, dosage taken, and route of administration. Life-threatening effects such as hypotension, bradycardia, and asystole are seen with IV administration and are likely secondary to the diluent, propylene glycol. Morbidity can be avoided by slowing the rate of administration during infusion. Extravasation of phenytoin, but not fosphenytoin, may result in catastrophic injury with significant loss of soft tissue or even loss of digits or the hand.
++
Clinical manifestations in overdose are typically dose related and are listed in Table 109-1. The primary clinical features of overdose are related to acute CNS effects while cardiovascular toxicity almost exclusively results from IV administration. Supratherapeutic phenytoin levels commonly result in cerebellar symptoms of dizziness, ataxia, and nystagmus. Skin and soft tissue injury may be seen with IM injection or after extravasation from IV infusion. Therapeutic use has been associated with hypersensitivity reactions and gingival hyperplasia. Phenytoin is teratogenic.
++
+++
Diagnosis and Differential
++
Diagnosis is made by history, clinical exam, and serum drug levels. The therapeutic range is 10 to 20 µg/mL and toxicity generally correlates with increasing plasma levels (Table 109-2). Absorption is erratic, and serial levels should be obtained in cases of suspected ingestion. Electrocardiographic changes in toxicity include increased PR interval, widened QRS interval, and altered ST-wave and T-wave segments.
++