Objective Comparison of Phenobarbital and Diphenylhydantoin in Epileptic Patients

Abstract

Forty-eight patients with focal brain injury and epilepsy were given phenobarbital and Dilantin in equal doses by weight for 3 days. A double-blind, cross-over design was used. The seizures occurring during this three-day period and on the following day, when the regular medications were readministered, were counted. Generalized seizures were scored 2 points and focal seizures were scored 1. Analysis of such scores indicates that phenobarbital and Dilantin on a weight basis are equally effective in suppressing seizures. Together they have an additive and not a potentiated action.