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Phenytoin Sodium 300 mg Rectal Suppository

The Phenytoin Sodium 300 mg Rectal Suppository is a solid dosage form designed for insertion into the rectum. Upon administration, the suppository dissolves or melts, facilitating the release of phenytoin sodium for absorption. This medication is primarily used to manage and prevent seizures in individuals with epilepsy. It may also be utilized in the treatment of status epilepticus, a severe condition where a person experiences prolonged or repeated seizures without regaining consciousness between episodes. The rectal route of administration is particularly useful when oral administration is not feasible.

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Formula Information

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Phenytoin Sodium 300 mg Rectal Suppository is a solid dosage form designed for insertion into the rectum, where it dissolves or melts to release the active medication, phenytoin sodium, for local or systemic absorption. This route of administration can be particularly useful when oral administration is not feasible, such as in patients with nausea and vomiting, those who are unconscious or unable to swallow, or when medication delivery needs to bypass the gastrointestinal tract to avoid degradation or first-pass metabolism.

Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication that is commonly used to control certain types of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy. It works by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause seizures. Phenytoin does this by stabilizing the neuronal membrane and reducing the sensitivity of the sodium channels in the brain, which in turn helps to reduce the abnormal electrical activity that leads to seizures. While phenytoin is effective in managing seizures, it has a narrow therapeutic index and requires careful monitoring of blood levels to ensure efficacy while minimizing the risk of toxicity.

When compounded into a rectal suppository form, phenytoin sodium can provide a more consistent absorption profile compared to oral administration, which can be affected by various factors such as gastrointestinal motility and pH. This can be particularly important for patients who require stable blood levels of the medication for seizure control. Additionally, rectal administration can be a valuable alternative when intravenous access is not available or practical.

It is important for both patients and prescribers to understand that the use of phenytoin sodium rectal suppositories requires specific attention to dosing and administration technique to ensure proper drug delivery and absorption. Patients should be counseled on how to insert the suppository correctly and the importance of adhering to their dosing schedule. Prescribers should monitor patient response to therapy and adjust the dose as necessary based on therapeutic drug monitoring. Adverse effects, drug interactions, and contraindications associated with phenytoin should also be reviewed and discussed with the patient.

Bayview Pharmacy's team of compounding pharmacists is dedicated to providing high-quality, customized medications to meet the unique needs of each patient. If you have any questions about the Phenytoin Sodium 300 mg Rectal Suppository or its use in managing epilepsy and seizures, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to support both patients and healthcare providers with the information and guidance necessary to optimize treatment outcomes.

Drug Interactions

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Phenytoin sodium is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat and prevent seizures. When administered as a 300 mg rectal suppository, it is absorbed through the rectal mucosa and enters the systemic circulation. While this route of administration can be beneficial for patients who cannot take medications orally, it is important to consider potential drug interactions that may affect the efficacy and safety of phenytoin.

Phenytoin is metabolized primarily by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme system in the liver, particularly by the CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 isoenzymes. Drugs that induce or inhibit these enzymes can significantly alter phenytoin levels. Enzyme inducers, such as rifampin, carbamazepine, and phenobarbital, can decrease phenytoin levels, potentially leading to a loss of seizure control. Conversely, enzyme inhibitors like isoniazid, fluconazole, and acute alcohol intake can increase phenytoin levels, raising the risk of toxicity.

Phenytoin also affects the metabolism of other drugs. It is a potent inducer of CYP enzymes, which can reduce the levels and effectiveness of certain medications, including warfarin, oral contraceptives, and some antiretrovirals. Patients taking these medications should be closely monitored and may require dosage adjustments.

Additionally, phenytoin is highly protein-bound, and drugs that compete for protein binding sites, such as valproic acid and aspirin, can displace phenytoin, leading to increased free drug levels and potential toxicity. Careful monitoring of phenytoin serum levels is recommended when initiating or discontinuing drugs that may affect its protein binding.

Phenytoin's therapeutic range is narrow, and small changes in dose or serum levels can lead to significant clinical consequences. It is crucial to monitor for signs of toxicity, such as ataxia, nystagmus, and cognitive dysfunction, as well as for therapeutic efficacy. Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol and to consult with their healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as these may also interact with phenytoin.

For patients and prescribers considering the use of phenytoin sodium 300 mg rectal suppository, it is essential to review the patient's medication profile for potential interactions. Adjustments to the phenytoin dose or the concomitant medication may be necessary to maintain therapeutic drug levels and to avoid adverse effects. If you have any questions or require further information regarding drug interactions with phenytoin, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy for personalized advice and support.

How Does it Work

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Phenytoin Sodium is an anticonvulsant medication that is commonly used to manage and prevent seizures in various forms of epilepsy. The 300 mg Phenytoin Sodium Rectal Suppository is a solid dosage form designed for rectal administration, particularly useful in situations where oral administration is not feasible, such as with patients who are unconscious, vomiting, or non-compliant with oral medications.

The rectal suppository is formulated with a base that allows it to melt or dissolve after it is inserted into the rectum. The warmth and moisture in the rectal cavity cause the suppository to melt, releasing the active ingredient, Phenytoin Sodium, for local absorption through the rectal mucosa. Once absorbed, the drug enters the systemic circulation and is distributed throughout the body, including the brain where it exerts its therapeutic effects.

Phenytoin Sodium works by stabilizing the neuronal membrane and reducing the excitability of the central nervous system. It does this by blocking voltage-sensitive sodium channels in neurons, which inhibits the repetitive and sustained firing of action potentials. This action helps to prevent the spread of electrical discharges that can cause seizures. By stabilizing neuronal activity, Phenytoin Sodium helps to control the onset of seizure activity, thereby providing relief to patients suffering from epilepsy and other seizure-related disorders.

It is important for both patients and prescribers to understand that while Phenytoin Sodium can effectively manage seizures, it must be used with caution due to its narrow therapeutic index and potential for drug interactions. Blood levels of phenytoin must be monitored to ensure they remain within the therapeutic range, as both subtherapeutic and toxic levels can be harmful. Additionally, the use of rectal suppositories may be associated with local irritation or discomfort, and proper administration technique is essential for maximizing the efficacy of the medication and minimizing potential side effects.

For those considering the use of Phenytoin Sodium 300 mg Rectal Suppositories, it is crucial to follow the prescribed dosing regimen and to be aware of the signs of toxicity, which may include ataxia, nystagmus, slurred speech, and mental confusion. If you have any questions or concerns about this formulation or its administration, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is here to provide guidance and support to ensure the safe and effective use of this medication.

Other Uses

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Phenytoin, commonly recognized for its use in the management of epileptic seizures, possesses a versatility that extends beyond this primary indication when formulated as a 300 mg rectal suppository. The suppository form allows for an alternative route of administration in situations where oral intake is compromised, such as in patients with refractory nausea and vomiting, those who are nil by mouth (NPO) prior to surgery, or in individuals experiencing seizures that impair their ability to swallow. The rectal administration not only bypasses the gastrointestinal system, potentially reducing gastrointestinal side effects but also avoids first-pass metabolism, potentially leading to more consistent plasma concentrations.

Apart from its anticonvulsant application, phenytoin suppositories may exert utility in the off-label treatment of neuropathic pain. Studies have suggested that phenytoin can modulate neuropathic pain by stabilizing neuronal membranes and decreasing ectopic neural discharges. Additionally, due to its effects on sodium channels, phenytoin has been explored for its potential benefit in cardiac arrhythmias, particularly in settings where intravenous administration is not feasible and an oral route is not possible.

Furthermore, phenytoin sodium has been observed to promote tissue repair, thus garnering interest for its potential use in the treatment of pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, and venous stasis ulcers, though these applications are still considered experimental and should be approached with caution and under careful medical supervision. As a suppository, local tissue absorption may be advantageous in such scenarios, offering a localized drug delivery system that may promote wound healing.

However, it is vital to consider the intricate balance between therapeutic benefit and potential adverse effects when considering alternative uses for phenytoin sodium suppositories. Allergic reactions, dermatological effects, and systemic absorption leading to toxicity are some of the risks that should be carefully weighed. Dose adjustments may also be necessary, particularly in renal or hepatic impairment, or when interacting with other medications.

As compounding pharmacists, we at Bayview Pharmacy expertly formulate phenytoin sodium 300 mg rectal suppositories to ensure each patient receives the optimal benefit from their medication, according to their unique needs. Should you have any questions about the use of this formulation for conditions outside of its primary indication, or if you require any further information on its potential applications, we encourage both patients and prescribers to reach out to us. Our team is committed to supporting your health with top-quality care and comprehensive pharmaceutical knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is a Phenytoin Sodium 300 mg Rectal Suppository?

A Phenytoin Sodium 300 mg Rectal Suppository is a solid dosage form that is specifically designed to be inserted into the rectum. It contains 300 mg of Phenytoin Sodium, a medication commonly used to treat seizures. Upon insertion, the suppository dissolves or melts, releasing the medication for local or systemic absorption.

How does the Phenytoin Sodium suppository work?

Once inserted into the rectum, the suppository's base begins to melt or dissolve due to the warmth of the body, gradually releasing the Phenytoin Sodium. This medication is then absorbed through the rectal mucosa into the bloodstream, where it works to help stabilize and reduce the occurrence of seizures.

Who should use the Phenytoin Sodium Rectal Suppository?

This rectal suppository is typically prescribed to individuals who require seizure control with Phenytoin Sodium but are unable to take medications orally. However, it should only be used under the advice and supervision of a healthcare professional.

How should the Phenytoin Sodium Rectal Suppository be inserted?

To insert the suppository, lie on your side and gently push the suppository, pointed end first, into the rectum until it passes the muscular sphincter. Remain lying down for a few minutes to ensure the suppository stays in place and can start to dissolve properly. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after insertion.

What are the benefits of using Phenytoin Sodium via rectal administration?

Rectal administration can be beneficial for patients who are vomiting, unconscious, or otherwise unable to swallow oral medications. It also bypasses the digestive system, reducing potential stomach upset and ensuring the medication is absorbed even with gastrointestinal issues.

Can the Phenytoin Sodium suppository be used for both local and systemic effects?

While the primary purpose of the Phenytoin Sodium suppository is to achieve systemic absorption to treat seizures, it may also provide some local benefits due to its direct contact with the rectal mucosa. However, it is predominantly intended for systemic use.

How often should the Phenytoin Sodium Rectal Suppository be used?

The frequency of use will depend on the prescription provided by your healthcare provider. It is crucial to follow their instructions and not to alter the dosing schedule without their guidance.

What should I do if I miss a dose of the Phenytoin Sodium suppository?

If you miss a dose, insert the missed suppository as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Never double up on doses. Always consult your healthcare provider if you're unsure about the correct procedure.

Are there any side effects of the Phenytoin Sodium Rectal Suppository?

As with any medication, there may be side effects. Common side effects can include local irritation, discomfort, or a burning sensation in the rectal area. Systemic side effects may include dizziness, nausea, and changes in mood or mental state. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any severe or concerning symptoms.

How should Phenytoin Sodium Rectal Suppositories be stored?

The suppositories should be stored in a cool and dry place, typically at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Do not store them in the bathroom, and keep them out of reach of children and pets. Ensure the suppositories are kept in their original packaging until they are ready to be used.

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Formulas and/or material listed are not to be interpreted as a promise, guarantee or claim of therapeutic efficacy or safety. The information contained herein is not intended to replace or substitute for conventional medical care, or encourage its abandonment. Every patient is unique, and formulas should be adjusted to meet their individual needs.

No compounded medications are reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.