The most common side effects related to Phenytoin Sodium in children are jerky movements of the eyes (nystagmus) and overgrowth of the gums. In some children, Phenytoin Sodium causes problems with thinking or behavior, mood change, slow or clumsy movements, or a loss of energy. Other side effects from high doses include unsteadiness in the feet and hands, sleepiness, and vomiting. These may be avoidable if the dose is increased slowly. These side effects quickly disappear when the dose is reduced.

Phenytoin Sodium does affect birth control. Phenytoin Sodium can decrease the effect of oral contraceptives (birth control pills) which can make the contraceptive (birth control) effect unreliable. Please talk to your doctor if you are asked to take the two medicines together as you may need to use extra protection for birth control.

Phenytoin Sodium can be taken with ibuprofen. No drug-drug interactions have been reported between the two. However, interactions can occur. Please consult your doctor before taking the two medicines together.

Phenytoin Sodium has not been reported to cause weight gain. However, weight loss can occur with longer term use of a higher dose of Phenytoin Sodium. Please consult your doctor if you experience weight gain after taking Phenytoin Sodium.

Phenytoin Sodium can make you feel sleepy (sedation, somnolence, and drowsiness). Please consult your doctor if you feel very sleepy after taking Phenytoin Sodium, especially during the first few weeks of treatment or following a dose increase. Talk to your doctor as you may be advised not to drive or use machines until it is established that your ability to perform such activities is not affected.

On an average, Phenytoin Sodium may stay in your system for 5-6 days. This duration varies from person to person. In some cases, it may stay for about 9-10 days.

You should not take Phenytoin Sodium if you have liver disease, especially if you have a history of developing a liver problem due to Phenytoin Sodium. Also, patients taking Delavirdine (a medicine used in the treatment of HIV infection) should not take Phenytoin Sodium. Phenytoin Sodium may reduce the effectiveness of Delavirdine on HIV and the virus may also become resistant to Delavirdine. It is advised that you inform your doctor if you have any existing heart disorder before you receive Phenytoin Sodium.