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Seizures,dilantin,tooth Loss,calcium Deficiency
Question: My son was on Dilantin for seizures for from the ages of about 4 thru 16. At about 13 yrs of age, the pharmacist told me that it drew the calcium out of his bones and for him to take a supplement. Needless to say he would not take supplements (also had trouble getting him to stay on the meds). He is now 34 and his teeth are falling apart. Is there anything other than eating calcium XXXXXXX foods and taking a supplement that he can do? Does he need to get his blood checked?
Hello XXXXXXX,
Your question is a very good one. I will try to provide you with information and recommendations regarding the symptoms you son is experiencing.
Dilantin (phenytoin) is one of the common medicines used to treat seizures. The common side effects of this medicine when you take it for long time is dental problems and loss of calcium in the bones (Osteoporosis). So one has to be on oral calcium supplements when you are taking Dilantin. Other important thing is to avoid dental problems which could have been done by good dental hygiene.
Now, current problem is that the teeth are falling. The most common cause for tooth loss is gum disease (periodontal diseases) i.e Gingivitis and Periodontitis. The best way to prevent further falls is by maintaining good oral hygiene and taking vitamin supplements orally. Supplements can be in the form of medicines or dietary form of calcium. Avoid taking medicines which can cause dental problems. I would recommend you to see your Dentist for a comprehensive evaluation as well as a consideration of possible blood test which might help us roll out underlying causes for his problems.
I thank you again for submitting your question. I hope you find my response to be both helpful and adequate. If you have any additional concerns regarding your question I would be happy to address them.
Regards,
Your question is a very good one. I will try to provide you with information and recommendations regarding the symptoms you son is experiencing.
Dilantin (phenytoin) is one of the common medicines used to treat seizures. The common side effects of this medicine when you take it for long time is dental problems and loss of calcium in the bones (Osteoporosis). So one has to be on oral calcium supplements when you are taking Dilantin. Other important thing is to avoid dental problems which could have been done by good dental hygiene.
Now, current problem is that the teeth are falling. The most common cause for tooth loss is gum disease (periodontal diseases) i.e Gingivitis and Periodontitis. The best way to prevent further falls is by maintaining good oral hygiene and taking vitamin supplements orally. Supplements can be in the form of medicines or dietary form of calcium. Avoid taking medicines which can cause dental problems. I would recommend you to see your Dentist for a comprehensive evaluation as well as a consideration of possible blood test which might help us roll out underlying causes for his problems.
I thank you again for submitting your question. I hope you find my response to be both helpful and adequate. If you have any additional concerns regarding your question I would be happy to address them.
Regards,
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Shanthi.E
Answered by
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