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CEREBYX

Fosphenytoin Sodium · Injection, Solution

Prescription NDA TE AP RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
CEREBYX
Generic name
Fosphenytoin Sodium
Dosage form
Injection, Solution
Route
Intramuscular
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
1
NDC product codes
3
Packages
4
Data completeness
76% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Fosphenytoin Sodium 50 mg/mL 1670195 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Injection, Solution
Route of administration
Intramuscular
Presentations
7

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Anti-epileptic Agent [EPC] EPC All 62 members
Cytochrome P450 1A2 Inducers [MoA] MoA All 27 members
Cytochrome P450 2B6 Inducers [MoA] MoA All 44 members
Cytochrome P450 2C19 Inducers [MoA] MoA All 37 members
Cytochrome P450 2C8 Inducers [MoA] MoA All 21 members
Cytochrome P450 2C9 Inducers [MoA] MoA All 46 members
Cytochrome P450 2D6 Inducers [MoA] MoA All 12 members
Cytochrome P450 3A Inducers [MoA] MoA All 37 members
Decreased Central Nervous System Disorganized Electrical Activity [PE] PE All 114 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
020450
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
August 5, 1996
Sponsor
PARKE DAVIS
Products on application
1
Submissions recorded
30
Products approved under application 020450.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
020450-001 CEREBYX INJECTABLE FOSPHENYTOIN SODIUM Prescription AP RLD RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AP
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated (parenteral aqueous solutions)

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 020450.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 46 Labeling Approved April 28, 2022 Standard
Supplement 45 Labeling Approved December 2, 2021 Standard
Supplement 42 Labeling Approved February 16, 2021 Standard
Supplement 40 Labeling Approved January 28, 2020 Standard
Supplement 39 Labeling Approved July 12, 2019 Standard
Supplement 38 Labeling Approved October 31, 2017 Standard
Supplement 37 Labeling Approved October 31, 2017 Standard
Supplement 36 Labeling Approved March 10, 2017 Standard
Supplement 3 Efficacy Approved March 1, 2017 Standard
Supplement 33 Labeling Approved November 4, 2016 Standard
Supplement 31 Labeling Approved June 16, 2016 Standard
Supplement 30 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 1, 2016 Standard
Supplement 29 Labeling Approved March 3, 2016 Standard
Supplement 28 Labeling Approved June 4, 2015 Standard
Supplement 25 Labeling Approved June 12, 2014 Standard
Supplement 26 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 9, 2014 Standard
Supplement 23 Labeling Approved January 3, 2014 Standard
Supplement 24 Labeling Approved October 22, 2013 Standard
Supplement 21 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved August 30, 2013 Standard
Supplement 20 Labeling Approved March 6, 2013 Standard
Supplement 19 Labeling Approved November 13, 2011 Unknown
Supplement 16 Labeling Approved November 13, 2011 Standard
Supplement 9 Labeling Approved November 13, 2011 Standard
Supplement 8 Labeling Approved November 13, 2011 Standard
Supplement 7 Labeling Approved January 2, 2002 Standard
Supplement 5 Labeling Approved August 13, 2001 Standard
Supplement 4 Labeling Approved August 13, 2001 Standard
Supplement 2 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved November 20, 1998 Standard
Supplement 1 Labeling Approved December 26, 1996 Standard
Original application 1 Type 1 - New Molecular Entity Approved August 5, 1996 Standard

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · April 29, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · December 6, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · December 6, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · February 18, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · February 17, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · January 29, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · January 29, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · July 16, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · July 15, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · November 6, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · November 6, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · November 1, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · November 1, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · March 16, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · March 14, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · March 2, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · March 2, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · November 8, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · November 7, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · June 21, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · March 4, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · March 4, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · June 10, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · June 10, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · June 17, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · June 17, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · January 7, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · January 7, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · November 20, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · October 24, 2013

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20250828). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20250828

Boxed Warning

openFDA Drug Labeling

WARNING: CARDIOVASCULAR RISK ASSOCIATED WITH RAPID INFUSION RATES The rate of intravenous CEREBYX administration should not exceed 150 mg phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE) per minute in adults and 2 mg PE/kg/min (or 150 mg PE/min, whichever is slower) in pediatric patients because of the risk of severe hypotension and cardiac arrhythmias. Careful cardiac monitoring is needed during and after administering intravenous CEREBYX. Although the risk of cardiovascular toxicity increases with infusion rates above the recommended infusion rate, these events have also been reported at or below the recommended infusion rate. Reduction in rate of administration or discontinuation of dosing may be needed [see Dosage and Administration (2.3 , 2.4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. WARNING: CARDIOVASCULAR RISK ASSOCIATED WITH RAPID INFUSION RATES See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning . • The rate of intravenous CEREBYX administration should not exceed 150 mg phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE) per minute in adults and 2 mg PE/kg/min (or 150 mg PE/min, whichever is slower) in pediatric patients because of the risk of severe hypotension and cardiac arrhythmias. • Careful cardiac monitoring is needed during and after administering intravenous CEREBYX. • Reduction in rate of administration or discontinuation of dosing may be needed ( 2.3 , 2.4 , 5.2 ) .

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE CEREBYX is indicated for the treatment of generalized tonic-clonic status epilepticus and prevention and treatment of seizures occurring during neurosurgery. CEREBYX can also be substituted, short-term, for oral phenytoin. CEREBYX should be used only when oral phenytoin administration is not possible [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . CEREBYX is indicated for the treatment of generalized tonic-clonic status epilepticus and prevention and treatment of seizures occurring during neurosurgery. CEREBYX can also be substituted, as short-term use, for oral phenytoin. CEREBYX should be used only when oral phenytoin administration is not possible. ( 1 )

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • The dose, concentration, and infusion rate of CEREBYX should always be expressed as phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE) ( 2.1 ) • For Status Epilepticus: o Adult loading dose is 15 to 20 mg PE/kg at a rate of 100 to 150 mg PE/min ( 2.3 ) o Pediatric loading dose is 15 to 20 mg PE/kg at a rate of 2 mg PE/kg/min (or 150 mg PE/min, whichever is slower) ( 2.3 ) • For Non-emergent Loading and Maintenance Dosing: o Adult loading dose is 10 to 20 mg PE/kg given IV or IM; initial maintenance dose is 4 to 6 mg PE/kg/day in divided doses ( 2.4 ) o Pediatric loading dose is 10 to 15 mg PE/kg at a rate of 1 to 2 mg PE/kg/min (or 150 mg PE/min, whichever is slower); initial maintenance dose is 2 to 4 mg PE/kg every 12 hours at a rate of 1 to 2 mg PE/kg/min (or 100 mg PE/min, whichever is slower) ( 2.4 ) • Intramuscular Administration: o CEREBYX should ordinarily not be given intramuscularly ( 2.3 , 2.4 ) 2.1 Important Administration Instructions to Avoid Dosing Errors Use caution when administering CEREBYX because of the risk of dosing errors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Phenytoin Sodium Equivalents (PE) The dose, concentration, and infusion rate of CEREBYX should always be expressed as phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE). There is no need to perform molecular weight-based adjustments when converting between fosphenytoin and phenytoin sodium doses. CEREBYX should always be prescribed and dispensed in phenytoin sodium equivalent units (PE). The amount and concentration of fosphenytoin is always expressed in terms of mg of phenytoin sodium equivalents (mg PE). Concentration of 50 mg PE/mL Do not confuse the concentration of CEREBYX with the total amount of drug in the vial. Errors, including fatal overdoses, have occurred when the concentration of the vial (50 mg PE/mL) was misinterpreted to mean that the total content of the vial was 50 mg PE. These errors have resulted in two- or ten-fold overdoses of CEREBYX since each of the vials actually contains a total of 100 mg PE (2 mL vial) or 500 mg PE (10 mL vial). Ensure the appropriate volume of CEREBYX is withdrawn from the vial when preparing the dose for administration. Attention to these details may prevent some CEREBYX medication errors from occurring. 2.2 Preparation Prior to intravenous (IV) infusion, dilute CEREBYX in 5% Dextrose Injection or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection to a concentration ranging from 1.5 to 25 mg PE/mL. The maximum concentration of CEREBYX in any solution should be 25 mg PE/mL. When CEREBYX is given as an IV infusion, CEREBYX needs to be diluted and should only be administered at a rate not exceeding 150 mg PE/min. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. For single-dose only. After opening, any unused product should be discarded. 2.3 Status Epilepticus • Because of the risk of hypotension and cardiac arrhythmias, the rate of administration for IV CEREBYX should be no greater than 150 mg PE/min in adults and 2 mg PE/kg/min (or 150 mg PE/min, whichever is slower) in pediatric patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Continuous monitoring of the electrocardiogram, blood pressure, and respiratory function is essential, and the patient should be observed throughout the period where maximal serum phenytoin concentrations occur, approximately 10 to 20 minutes after the end of CEREBYX infusions. • Because the full antiepileptic effect of phenytoin, whether given as CEREBYX or parenteral phenytoin, is not immediate, other measures, including concomitant administration of an IV benzodiazepine, will usually be necessary for the control of status epilepticus. • The loading dose should be followed by maintenance doses of either CEREBYX or phenytoin [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ] . • If administration of CEREBYX does not terminate seizures, the use of other anticonvulsants and other appropriate measures should …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS CEREBYX Injection is a clear, colorless to pale yellow solution available as 50 mg phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE) per mL in: • 10 mL single-dose injection vials, each containing 500 mg PE/10 mL (50 mg PE/mL) • 2 mL single-dose injection vials, each containing 100 mg PE/2 mL (50 mg PE/mL) Injection: 50 mg phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE)/mL available as: • 10 mL single-dose injection vials, each containing 500 mg PE/10 mL (50 mg PE/mL) ( 3 ) • 2 mL single-dose injection vials, each containing 100 mg PE/2 mL (50 mg PE/mL) ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS CEREBYX is contraindicated in patients with: • A history of hypersensitivity to CEREBYX or its inactive ingredients, or to phenytoin or other hydantoins [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] . Reactions have included angioedema. • Sinus bradycardia, sino-atrial block, second and third degree A-V block, or Adams-Stokes syndrome because of the effect of parenteral phenytoin or CEREBYX on ventricular automaticity. • A history of prior acute hepatotoxicity attributable to CEREBYX or phenytoin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] . • Coadministration with delavirdine because of the potential for loss of virologic response and possible resistance to delavirdine or to the class of non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. • Hypersensitivity to CEREBYX, its ingredients, phenytoin, hydantoins ( 4 ) • Sinus bradycardia, sino-atrial block, second and third degree A-V block, and Adams-Stokes syndrome ( 4 ) • A history of prior acute hepatotoxicity attributable to CEREBYX or phenytoin ( 4 , 5.8 ) • Coadministration with delavirdine ( 4 )

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Dosing Errors: Do not confuse the amount of drug to be given in PE with the concentration of the drug in the vial . Ensure the appropriate volume is withdrawn from the vial when preparing for administration. ( 5.1 ) • Withdrawal Precipitated Seizure: May precipitate status epilepticus. Dose reductions or discontinuation should be done gradually. ( 5.3 ) • Serious Dermatologic Reactions: Discontinue at the first sign of a rash, unless clearly not drug-related. If signs or symptoms suggest SJS/TEN, CEREBYX should not be resumed; consider alternative therapy. ( 5.4 ) • Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)/Multiorgan Hypersensitivity: If signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity are present, evaluate the patient immediately. Discontinue if an alternative etiology cannot be established. ( 5.5 ) • Angioedema: Discontinue immediately if symptoms of angioedema such as facial, perioral, or upper airway swelling occur. ( 5.7 ) • Hematopoietic Complications: If occurs, follow-up observation is indicated and an alternative antiepileptic treatment should be used. ( 5.9 ) 5.1 Dosing Errors Phenytoin Sodium Equivalents (PE) Do not confuse the amount of drug to be given in PE with the concentration of the drug in the vial. Doses of CEREBYX are always expressed in terms of milligrams of phenytoin sodium equivalents (mg PE). 1 mg PE is equivalent to 1 mg phenytoin sodium. Do not, therefore, make any adjustment in the recommended doses when substituting CEREBYX for phenytoin sodium or vice versa. For example, if a patient is receiving 1000 mg PE of CEREBYX, that is equivalent to 1000 mg of phenytoin sodium. Concentration of 50 mg PE/mL Medication errors associated with CEREBYX have resulted in patients receiving the wrong dose of fosphenytoin. CEREBYX is marketed in 2 mL vials containing a total of 100 mg PE and 10 mL vials containing a total of 500 mg PE. The concentration of each vial is 50 mg PE/mL. Errors have occurred when the concentration of the vial (50 mg PE/mL) was misinterpreted to mean that the total content of the vial was 50 mg PE. These errors have resulted in two- or ten-fold overdoses of CEREBYX since each vial actually contains a total of 100 mg PE or 500 mg PE. In some cases, ten-fold overdoses were associated with fatal outcomes. To help minimize confusion, the prescribed dose of CEREBYX should always be expressed in milligrams of phenytoin equivalents (mg PE) [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] . Additionally, when ordering and storing CEREBYX, consider displaying the total drug content (i.e., 100 mg PE/ 2 mL or 500 mg PE/ 10 mL) instead of concentration in computer systems, pre-printed orders, and automated dispensing cabinet databases to help ensure that total drug content can be clearly identified. Care should be taken to ensure the appropriate volume of CEREBYX is withdrawn from the vial when preparing the drug for administration. Attention to these details may prevent some CEREBYX medication errors from occurring. 5.2 Cardiovascular Risk Associated with Rapid Infusion Rapid intravenous administration of CEREBYX increases the risk of adverse cardiovascular reactions, including severe hypotension and cardiac arrhythmias. Cardiac arrhythmias have included bradycardia, heart block, QT interval prolongation, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation which have resulted in asystole, cardiac arrest, and death. Severe complications are most commonly encountered in critically ill patients, elderly patients, and patients with hypotension and severe myocardial insufficiency. However, cardiac events have also been reported in adults and children without underlying cardiac disease or comorbidities and at recommended doses and infusion rates. The rate of intravenous CEREBYX administration should not exceed 150 mg phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE) per minute in adults and 2 mg PE/kg/min (or 150 mg PE/min, whichever is slower) in pediatric patients [see Dosage and Adminis …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: • Cardiovascular Risk Associated with Rapid Infusion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Withdrawal Precipitated Seizure, Status Epilepticus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Serious Dermatologic Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)/Multiorgan Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Angioedema [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Hepatic Injury [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] • Hematopoietic Complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] • Sensory Disturbances [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] • Local Toxicity (Including Purple Glove Syndrome) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] • Exacerbation of Porphyria [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14) ] • Teratogenicity and Other Harm to the Newborn [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15) ] • Hyperglycemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥10%) are: • Adults: pruritus, nystagmus, dizziness, somnolence, and ataxia • Pediatrics: vomiting, nystagmus, and ataxia ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pfizer, Inc. at 1-800-438-1985 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The more important adverse clinical reactions caused by the IV use of CEREBYX or phenytoin are cardiovascular collapse and/or CNS depression. Hypotension can occur when either drug is administered rapidly by the IV route. The rate of administration is very important; for CEREBYX, it should not exceed 150 mg PE/min [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . The adverse reactions most commonly observed with the use of CEREBYX in clinical trials were nystagmus, dizziness, pruritus, somnolence, and ataxia. With one exception, these reactions are commonly associated with the administration of IV phenytoin. Pruritus, however, was seen much more often following CEREBYX administration and occurred more often with IV CEREBYX administration than with IM CEREBYX administration. These reactions were dose and rate related; most alert patients (41 of 64; 64%) administered doses of ≥15 mg PE/kg at 150 mg PE/min experienced discomfort of some degree. These sensations, generally described as itching, burning, or tingling, were usually not at the infusion site. The location of the discomfort varied with the groin mentioned most frequently as a site of involvement. The paresthesia and pruritus were transient events that occurred within several minutes of the start of infusion and generally resolved within 10 minutes after completion of CEREBYX infusion. Some patients experienced symptoms for hours. These reactions did not increase in severity with repeated administration. Concurrent adverse events or clinical laboratory change suggesting an allergic process were not seen [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] . Approximately 2% of the 859 patients who received CEREBYX in premarketing clinical trials discontinued treatment because of an adverse event. The adverse events most commonly associated with withdrawal were pruritus (0.5%), hypotension (0.3%), and bradycardia (0.2%). Dose and Rate Dependency of Adverse Reactions Following IV CEREBYX: The incidence of adverse reactions tended to increase as both dose and infusion rate increased. In particular, at doses of ≥15mg PE/kg and rates ≥150 mg PE/min, transient pruritus, tinnitus, nystagmus, somnolence, and ataxia occurred 2 to 3 times more often than at lower doses or rates. Incidence in Controlled Clinical Trials All adverse events were recorded during the tria …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Fosphenytoin is extensively bound to human plasma proteins. Drugs highly bound to albumin could increase the unbound fraction of fosphenytoin. Although, it is unknown whether this could result in clinically significant effects, caution is advised when administering CEREBYX with other drugs that significantly bind to serum albumin. The most significant drug interactions following administration of CEREBYX are expected to occur with drugs that interact with phenytoin. Phenytoin is extensively bound to serum plasma proteins and is prone to competitive displacement. Phenytoin is primarily metabolized by the hepatic cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP2C9 and to a lesser extent by CYP2C19 and is particularly susceptible to inhibitory drug interactions because it is subject to saturable metabolism. Inhibition of metabolism may produce significant increases in circulating phenytoin concentrations and enhance the risk of drug toxicity. Monitoring of phenytoin serum levels is recommended when a drug interaction is suspected. Phenytoin or CEREBYX is a potent inducer of hepatic drug-metabolizing enzymes. • Multiple drug interactions because of extensive plasma protein binding, saturable metabolism, and potent induction of hepatic enzymes ( 7.1 , 7.2 ) 7.1 Drugs that Affect Phenytoin or CEREBYX Table 6 includes commonly occurring drug interactions that affect phenytoin (the active metabolite of CEREBYX) concentrations. However, this list is not intended to be inclusive or comprehensive. Individual prescribing information from relevant drugs should be consulted. The addition or withdrawal of these agents in patients on phenytoin therapy may require an adjustment of the phenytoin dose to achieve optimal clinical outcome. Table 6. Drugs That Affect Phenytoin Concentrations Interacting Agent Examples Drugs that may increase phenytoin serum levels Antiepileptic drugs Ethosuximide, felbamate, oxcarbazepine, methsuximide, topiramate Azoles Fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, miconazole, voriconazole Antineoplastic agents Capecitabine, fluorouracil Antidepressants Fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, sertraline Gastric acid reducing agents H 2 antagonists (cimetidine), omeprazole Sulfonamides Sulfamethizole, sulfaphenazole, sulfadiazine, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim Other Acute alcohol intake, amiodarone, chloramphenicol, chlordiazepoxide, disulfiram, estrogen, fluvastatin, isoniazid, methylphenidate, phenothiazines, salicylates, ticlopidine, tolbutamide, trazodone, warfarin Drugs that may decrease phenytoin serum levels Antineoplastic agents usually in combination Bleomycin, carboplatin, cisplatin, doxorubicin, methotrexate Antiviral agents Fosamprenavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir Antiepileptic drugs Carbamazepine, vigabatrin Other Chronic alcohol abuse, diazepam, diazoxide, folic acid, reserpine, rifampin, St. John's wort, The induction potency of St. John's wort may vary widely based on preparation. theophylline Drugs that may either increase or decrease phenytoin serum levels Antiepileptic drugs Phenobarbital, valproate sodium, valproic acid 7.2 Drugs Affected by Phenytoin or CEREBYX Table 7 includes commonly occurring drug interactions affected by phenytoin (the active metabolite of CEREBYX). However, this list is not intended to be inclusive or comprehensive. Individual drug package inserts should be consulted. The addition or withdrawal of phenytoin during concomitant therapy with these agents may require adjustment of the dose of these agents to achieve optimal clinical outcome. Table 7: Drugs Affected by Phenytoin Interacting Agent Examples Drugs whose efficacy is impaired by phenytoin Azoles Fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole Antineoplastic agents Irinotecan, paclitaxel, teniposide Delavirdine Phenytoin can substantially reduce the concentrations of delavirdine. This can lead to loss of virologic response and possible resistance [see Contraindications (4) ]. Neuromuscular blocking agents Cisatracurium, p …

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Pregnancy: Phenytoin (the active metabolite of CEREBYX) prenatal exposure may increase risks for congenital malformations and other adverse developmental outcomes ( 5.15 , 8.1 ) • Renal and/or Hepatic Impairment or Hypoalbuminemia: Monitor unbound phenytoin concentrations in these patients ( 8.6 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), such as CEREBYX, during pregnancy. Physicians are advised to recommend that pregnant patients taking CEREBYX enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry. This can be done by calling the toll-free number 1-888-233-2334, and must be done by patients themselves. Information on the registry can also be found at the website http://www.aedpregnancyregistry.org/ . Risk Summary In humans, prenatal exposure to phenytoin (the active metabolite of CEREBYX) may increase the risks for congenital malformations and other adverse developmental outcomes. Prenatal phenytoin exposure is associated with an increased incidence of major malformations, including orofacial clefts and cardiac defects. In addition, the fetal hydantoin syndrome, a pattern of abnormalities including dysmorphic skull and facial features, nail and digit hypoplasia, growth abnormalities (including microcephaly), and cognitive deficits has been reported among children born to epileptic women who took phenytoin alone or in combination with other antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy [see Data ] . There have been several reported cases of malignancies, including neuroblastoma, in children whose mothers received phenytoin during pregnancy. Administration of phenytoin to pregnant animals resulted in an increased incidence of fetal malformations and other manifestations of developmental toxicity (including embryofetal death, growth impairment, and behavioral abnormalities) in multiple species at clinically relevant doses [see Data ]. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and of miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal risk An increase in seizure frequency may occur during pregnancy because of altered phenytoin pharmacokinetics. Periodic measurement of serum phenytoin concentrations may be valuable in the management of pregnant women as a guide to appropriate adjustment of dosage [see Dosage and Administration (2.5 , 2.9) ] . However, postpartum restoration of the original dosage will probably be indicated. Fetal/Neonatal adverse reactions A potentially life-threatening bleeding disorder related to decreased levels of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors may occur in newborns exposed to phenytoin in utero . This drug-induced condition can be prevented with vitamin K administration to the mother before delivery and to the neonate after birth. Data Human Data Meta-analyses using data from published observational studies and registries have estimated an approximately 2.4-fold increased risk for any major malformation in children with prenatal phenytoin exposure compared to controls. An increased risk of heart defects, facial clefts, and digital hypoplasia has been reported. The fetal hydantoin syndrome is a pattern of congenital anomalies including craniofacial anomalies, nail and digital hypoplasia, prenatal-onset growth deficiency, and neurodevelopmental deficiencies. Animal Data Administration of phenytoin to pregnant rats, rabbits, and mice during organogenesis resulted in embryofetal death, fetal malformations, and decreased fetal growth. Malformations (including craniofacial, cardiovascular, neural, limb, and digit abnormalities) were observed in rats, rabbits, and mice at doses as low as 100, 75, and 12.5 mg/kg, respectiv …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action Fosphenytoin is a prodrug of phenytoin and accordingly, its anticonvulsant effects are attributable to phenytoin. The precise mechanism by which phenytoin exerts its therapeutic effect has not been established but is thought to involve the voltage-dependent blockade of membrane sodium channels resulting in a reduction in sustained high-frequency neuronal discharges.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION CEREBYX ® (fosphenytoin sodium injection) is a prodrug intended for parenteral administration; its active metabolite is phenytoin. 1.5 mg of fosphenytoin sodium is equivalent to 1 mg phenytoin sodium, and is referred to as 1 mg phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE). The amount and concentration of fosphenytoin is always expressed in terms of mg PE . The pharmacological class of the fosphenytoin sodium is hydantoin derivative, and the therapeutic class is anticonvulsant. CEREBYX is marketed in 2 mL vials containing a total of 100 mg PE/2 mL (50 mg PE/mL) and 10 mL vials containing a total of 500 mg PE/10 mL (50 mg PE/mL), for intravenous or intramuscular administration. The concentration of each vial is 50 mg PE/mL. CEREBYX is supplied in vials as a sterile solution in Water for Injection, USP, and Tromethamine, USP (TRIS) (12.11 mg/mL), buffer adjusted to pH 8.6 to 9.0 with either Hydrochloric Acid, NF, or Sodium Hydroxide, NF. CEREBYX is a clear, colorless to pale yellow, sterile solution. The chemical name of fosphenytoin is 5,5-diphenyl-3-[(phosphonooxy)methyl]-2,4-imidazolidinedione disodium salt. The molecular structure of fosphenytoin is: The molecular weight of fosphenytoin is 406.24. Chemical Structure

10 OVERDOSAGE Nausea, vomiting, lethargy, tachycardia, bradycardia, asystole, cardiac arrest, hypotension, syncope, hypocalcemia, metabolic acidosis, and death have been reported in cases of overdosage with CEREBYX. Because CEREBYX is a prodrug of phenytoin, the following information about phenytoin overdosage may be helpful. Initial symptoms of acute phenytoin toxicity are nystagmus, ataxia, and dysarthria. Other signs include tremor, hyperreflexia, lethargy, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting, coma, and hypotension. Death is caused by respiratory and circulatory depression. The lethal dose of phenytoin in adults is estimated to be 2 to 5 grams. The lethal dose in pediatrics is not known. There are marked variations among individuals with respect to serum phenytoin concentrations where toxicity occurs. Lateral gaze nystagmus usually appears at 20 μg/mL, ataxia at 30 μg/mL, and dysarthria and lethargy appear when the serum concentration is over 40 μg/mL. However, phenytoin concentrations as high as 50 μg/mL have been reported without evidence of toxicity. As much as 25 times the therapeutic phenytoin dose has been taken, resulting in serum phenytoin concentrations over 100 μg/mL, with complete recovery. Irreversible cerebellar dysfunction and atrophy have been reported after overdosage. Formate and phosphate are metabolites of CEREBYX and therefore may contribute to signs of toxicity following overdosage. Signs of formate toxicity are similar to those of methanol toxicity and are associated with severe anion-gap metabolic acidosis. Large amounts of phosphate, delivered rapidly, could potentially cause hypocalcemia with paresthesia, muscle spasms, and seizures. Ionized free calcium levels can be measured and, if low, used to guide treatment. Treatment: Treatment is nonspecific since there is no known antidote to CEREBYX or phenytoin overdosage. The adequacy of the respiratory and circulatory systems should be carefully observed, and appropriate supportive measures employed. Hemodialysis can be considered since phenytoin (the active metabolite of CEREBYX) is not completely bound to plasma proteins. Total exchange transfusion has been used in the treatment of severe intoxication in children. In acute overdosage the possibility of other CNS depressants, including alcohol, should be borne in mind.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING 16.1 How Supplied CEREBYX Injection is a clear, colorless to pale yellow solution supplied as follows: mg phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE) per vial Volume per vial (mL) Package Configuration NDC 500 mg PE/10 mL vial 10 mL per vial Package contains 10 vials of NDC 0069-6001-10 NDC 0069-6001-21 100 mg PE/2 mL vial 2 mL per vial Package contains 25 vials of NDC 0069-6001-02 NDC 0069-6001-25 Both sizes of vials contain Tromethamine, USP (TRIS), Hydrochloric Acid, NF, or Sodium Hydroxide, NF, and Water for Injection, USP. CEREBYX should always be prescribed in phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE) [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . 1.5 mg of fosphenytoin sodium is equivalent to 1 mg phenytoin sodium, and is referred to as 1 mg PE. The amount and concentration of fosphenytoin is always expressed in terms of mg of phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE). Fosphenytoin's weight is expressed as phenytoin sodium equivalents to avoid the need to perform molecular weight-based adjustments when substituting fosphenytoin for phenytoin or vice versa. 16.2 Storage and Handling Store under refrigeration at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). The product should not be stored at room temperature for more than 48 hours. Vials that develop particulate matter should not be used. Injection vials are single-dose only. After opening, any unused product should be discarded.

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
2,553
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: FOSPHENYTOIN SODIUM. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
0069-5471-02 0069-5471 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc 25 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0069-5471-02) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (0069-5471-01) October 28, 2013
0069-5474-02 0069-5474 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 PACKAGE (0069-5474-02) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (0069-5474-01) October 28, 2013
0069-6001-21 0069-6001 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc 10 VIAL in 1 PACKAGE (0069-6001-21) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL (0069-6001-10) October 28, 2013
0069-6001-25 0069-6001 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc 25 VIAL in 1 CARTON (0069-6001-25) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL (0069-6001-02) October 28, 2013
0069-5471 0069-5471 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc — October 28, 2013
0069-5474 0069-5474 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc — October 28, 2013
0069-6001 0069-6001 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc — October 28, 2013

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts

Generated September 25, 2026 · 11 sections on this page.