Appropriateness of Intravenous Loading Dose of Phenytoin Treatment in Srinagarind Hospital
Somsak Tiamkao MD*, Numthip Chitravas MD*, Suthipun Jitpimolmard MD*, Kittisak Sawanyawisuth MD*
Affiliation : * Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen
Intravenous loading dose of phenytoin treatment (ILP) is a useful treatment but may cause serious adverse events. The present study assessed the appropriate use of ILP in Srinagarind Hospital. The authors reviewed all charts that ILP was ordered between January 1st, 2000 and December 31st, 2001, about indica- tion, the infusion rate, and side effects. There were 206 cases treated with ILP. Thirty-two cases (15.7%) received inappropriate treatment by ILP. The most common indication was primary prophylaxis before brain surgery. There were 7 cases that developed side effects with 5 cases of high blood phenytoin level. These data showed that physicians should consider more carefully the use of ILP.
Keywords : Phenytoin, Intravenous loading antiepileptic drug, Antiepileptic drug
