Compare Dilantin vs. Keppra

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Dilantin (phenytoin)

Prescription only

Keppra (levetiracetam)

Prescription only
Treats and prevents seizures.

Dilantin (phenytoin) is very good at treating and preventing seizures, but it has many drug interactions and some serious side effects.

Prevents seizures.

Keppra (levetiracetam) is effective for preventing seizures in people with epilepsy and has fewer drug interactions than its alternatives.

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4.5/ 5 average rating with 21 reviewsforKeppra
Upsides
  • If you have trouble swallowing pills, Dilantin (phenytoin) is available as a chewable tablet or a liquid.
  • Dilantin (phenytoin) is available in a cheaper, generic form.
  • Keppra (levetiracetam) is effective at lowering the frequency of various types of seizures.
  • Keppra (levetiracetam) is available in liquid form or dissolving tablets if you have trouble swallowing pills.
  • Compared to other seizure medications, Keppra (levetiracetam) has fewer side effects and drug interactions, and usually does not require monitoring blood levels.
Downsides
  • Need to get regular blood tests while taking Dilantin (phenytoin) to make sure the medicine level is safe and effective in your body.
  • Can cause changes in your appearance, such as unwanted hair growth and enlargement of your gums.
  • If you have kidney problems, you’ll need regular blood tests to check your kidney function and to make sure Dilantin (phenytoin) levels in your blood don’t get too high.
  • Dilantin (phenytoin) can make other medications not work as well, including birth control.
  • Must be taken on time so that there are consistent levels of the drug in your body.
  • Keppra (levetiracetam) may not be the best drug to take if you have a history of mood problems, such as depression or bipolar disorder.
  • If you have kidney problems, your dose will need to be adjusted and your doctor will check your kidney function regularly.
  • Due to its effects on your balance, Keppra (levetiracetam) may not be appropriate for the elderly.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Extended release
  • Chewable tablet
  • Liquid
  • Pill
  • Extended release
  • Liquid
  • Oral disintegrating tablet
Price
Lowest price
$70.74
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Lowest price
$9.00
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Reviews
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21 reviews so far
33%
saidit'sworth it
81%
saiditworked well
33%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Keppra (levetiracetam)?

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Side effects
The Dilantin (phenytoin) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
13possible side effects
  • Drowsiness
    12%
  • Neck pain
    8%
  • Inflammation of the back of throat
    7%
  • Feeling off balance
    5%
  • Flu symptoms
    5%
  • Depression
    5%
  • Anxiety
    3%
  • Depressed mood
    2%
  • Double vision
    2%
  • Excessive sleepiness
    2%
  • Difficulty sleeping
    2%
  • Irritability
    2%
  • Nervousness
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Severe skin reactions
    • Asian ancestry
  • Serious liver damage
    • First 2 months of taking Dilantin (phenytoin)
  • Changes in blood cell counts
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior
    • History of depression
  • Withdrawal seizures
    • Stopping Dilantin (phenytoin) suddenly
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Life-threatening skin reactions
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • Driving impairment
    • Taking with alcohol
    • Taking other medicines that make you less alert
  • Blood disorders
  • Withdrawal seizures
    • Stopping Keppra (levetiracetam) suddenly
  • Psychiatric side effects
    • History of psychiatric problems
    • Ages less than 18
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Dilantin (phenytoin)
Learn more about Keppra (levetiracetam)