runbikegarden
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I had my first seizures last fall while sleeping (at age 49) and have been on Dilantin for about 7 months now. I have not had a seizure since which of course is great. But, I am worried about the side effects of Dilantin. At first I just thought I was adjusting to it but now I think otherwise. My main concern besides fatigue and dental problems is that I have these odd episodes. I might be running, or on the phone, or just chatting and I suddenly feel confused and if I am doing the talking, I have to stop because I can't concentrate enough to put the words together and if someone else is talking, I hear the words they are saying but I can't follow it. And then it stops. It lasts maybe a minute or two but I am completely dumbfounded during that time. I can usually sense that it is going to happen. Physically I am fine. When it happened on a long run the other day, I was able to keep on running but couldn't continue the conversation. I've yet to find anyone mentioning this but "mental confusion" is listed as a side effect of Dilantin. I'd say that's how I feel. So is what I describe what they mean by mental confusion? Has anyone else had this? I did mention it to my neurologist and he wasn't too concerned since it wasn't happening everyday. But it happens often enough for me. I am by the way starting the switch to lamotrigine more for dental reasons but that will take a 2 month transition. Any thoughts out there? Thanks!