My husband diagnosed with Temperol Lobe Epilepsy with generalized seizures last October, had his 3rd seizure yesterday at 5:30a.m. while sleeping. He has been on Dilantin 100mg. t.i.d. since Novemeber. (Had his 1st seizure July 07, then Oct. 07.) He had a dilantin level in January WNL. (between 10 and 20)
We went to the ER yesterday his dilantin level was 3.3 and they gave him a loading dose of 500mg. PO of dilantin, and 500mg. IV Dilantin. He is very regimented taking his Dilantin and does not miss doses.
And told him to take 400mgs. today.
I have a call in to our family Dr. and waiting for a return.
We were being seen by a Neurologist, but she abruptly cancelled my husbands January appt. and said she was leaving town for a month, and did not refer us to any other Dr. so we saw the family Dr. who is prescribing. I hesitate for my husband to return to her care. So we'll most likely look for another Neurologist. in the Northern Ohio area.
He also bikes alot, and has put 300 miles on his bike since we have been here in Florida since Feb.1st
My question is concerning dosages pertaining to weight. I have read on a website that dilantin is prescribed per mg. to kg.
The supposed correct dosage would be between 4 to 6 mgs. per Kilo.
Therefore if my husband weighs 190 pounds, he would be approx. 86 kilograms, and should take approx. 400 mgs. of Dilantin a day. Any thoughts on that?
Also, could someone please explain hypermetabolism?
Sorry to be so rambling, but darn it's so scary to watch someone you love have a seizure.
I am a Nurse and believe me, when it's one of my own, I go into a semi-panic mode!
Thank you,