Phenytoin

**Semantic type:** Organic Chemical|Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A hydantoin derivative and a non-sedative antiepileptic agent with anticonvulsant activity. Phenytoin potentially acts by promoting sodium efflux from neurons located in the motor cortex reducing post-tetanic potentiation at synapses. The reduction of potentiation prevents cortical seizure foci spreading to adjacent areas, stabilizing the threshold against hyperexcitability. In addition, this agent appears to reduce sensitivity of muscle spindles to stretch causing muscle relaxation.

**Synonyms:** - 5,5-Diphenyl-2,4-imidazolidinedione - Diphenylhydantoin - PHENYTOIN