What is the primary use of phenytoin?

What is the primary use of phenytoin?

• A. Prevents seizures
• B. Treats anxiety
• C. Lowers fever
• D. Controls blood pressure

Answer: (A)

Prevention of seizures is the primary purpose of phenytoin. It works as an anticonvulsant by stabilizing neuronal membranes through blockade of voltage-gated sodium channels, which reduces high-frequency firing during seizures. This mechanism makes it effective for long-term prophylaxis in epilepsy and for preventing recurrent seizures in certain at-risk situations. It is not used to treat anxiety, lower fever, or control blood pressure, which are managed with other types of medications.

Prevention of seizures is the primary purpose of phenytoin. It works as an anticonvulsant by stabilizing neuronal membranes through blockade of voltage-gated sodium channels, which reduces high-frequency firing during seizures. This mechanism makes it effective for long-term prophylaxis in epilepsy and for preventing recurrent seizures in certain at-risk situations. It is not used to treat anxiety, lower fever, or control blood pressure, which are managed with other types of medications.