PHENYTOIN, IV

  • Phenytoin, IV, 20 mg/kg diluted in sodium chloride 0.9% (not dextrose) administered not faster than 50 mg/minute, with cardiac monitoring.
    • Mixing instructions: For preparation of the infusion, the contents of a vial of phenytoin should be well mixed in 0.9% sodium chloride at a concentration of less than 4 g/L and be completely administered within 1 hour of mixing to avoid precipitation.
    • Cardiac monitoring should be done during the infusion.
    • If dysrhythmias occur, interrupt the infusion temporarily and reintroduce slowly, once rhythm becomes stable.
    • Continue with, IV, 5 mg/kg/day (300 mg daily for most adults).