Final answer:
Dilantin, or phenytoin, is used for controlling seizures. Monitoring blood levels is critical to avoid side effects and maintain therapeutic range, and it shouldn't be taken with alcohol or grapefruit.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dilantin, also known as phenytoin, is a medication commonly used to control seizures in the treatment of epilepsy. It's critical to monitor its levels in the blood because both low and high amounts can be problematic. The therapeutic level usually range from 10 to 20 µg/mL. Side effects of Dilantin can include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, and in some cases, more severe effects such as liver damage or blood disorders.
Monitoring the medication is essential to ensure the levels stay within the therapeutic range. Regular blood tests are recommended to check the phenytoin levels, as well as liver function tests, as the medication can affect liver enzymes. It's also important not to take Dilantin with alcohol, as it may increase the nervous system side effects of phenytoin such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Grapefruit and its juice can also affect the metabolism of phenytoin and should be avoided.