It is critical to seek medical attention as soon as possible for anyone who has such an issue. There are many medications that can cause slurred speech as a side effect. Some people are born with conditions, such as cerebral palsy, that cause slurred speech. Prodrug, fosphenytoin rapidly converted to phenytoin in vivo: minimal activity before conversion; water soluble, thus more suitable for parenteral applications: does not require cardiac monitoring; can be administered at faster rate; no IV filter required; compatible with both saline and dextrose mixtures; requires refrigeration, Do not abruptly discontinue phenytoin after long-term use because doing so may precipitate seizures; strict maintenance of drug therapy is essential for control of seizures and arrhythmias, Maintain good oral hygiene, including gum massage and regular dental visits, to prevent gingival hyperplasia, marked by bleeding, swelling, and tenderness of gums, Undergo a CBC every month for 1 year after the maintenance dose is established and every 3 mo thereafter, Avoid tasks that require mental alertness or motor skills until response to the drug is established; drowsiness usually diminishes with continued therapy, Notify the physician if fever, swollen glands, sore throat, a skin reaction, or signs of hematologic toxicity (such as a bleeding tendency, bruising, fatigue, or fever) occurs, Therapeutic range 10-20 mcg/ml; nystagmus appears at 20 mcg/ml, ataxia at 30 mcg/ml, dysarthria and lethargy at levels above 40 mcg/ml; lethal dose 2-5g, Blood pressure (with IV use), CBC, and renal and hepatic function, Be alert for signs of IV phenytoin toxicity, such as cardiovascular collapse and CNS depression, Signs of clinical improvement, such as a decrease in the frequency or intensity of seizures, Use with caution in older patients with: Cognitive impairment, Hepatic impairment, End-stage renal disease, Hypoalbuminemia, Bradycardia, 2nd or 3rd degree heart block, Severe cardiovascular disease (when using IV), Osteoporosis, Unsteady gait, Urinary incontinence, Other Uses in Geriatric Patient: Peripheral neuropathy, Of particular importance in the geriatric patient: Delirium, confusion, cognitive impairment, amnesia, sedation, lethargy, ataxia, hypotension (with IV), osteomalacia, folate deficiency. 7 Slurred Speech Causes | Why You May Have Speech Difficulty Volume of distribution is 0.5 to 0.8L/kg. SLPs can also instruct friends and family members on communicating more effectively with you. It is intended for informational purposes only. Tolerance and dependence may occur with prolonged therapy, with resulting withdrawal syndrome following abrupt discontinuation. A visual analogue scale was used to assess pain at 2, 6, and 12hours postoperatively. See additional information. The possible side effects or complications that can happen depend on what caused this condition in the first place and the specific treatments used. Some conditions may resolve with time as the tissues in the brain, nerve pathways, or muscles heal. We offer diagnosis and treatment in over 70 specialties and subspecialties, as well as programs, services, and support to help you stay well throughout your lifetime. Remain calm and find out what they want. What does it mean when you have a hole in your neck? causes speech