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Fosphenytoin sodium

Prescription ANDA TE AP 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
Fosphenytoin sodium
Generic name
Fosphenytoin sodium
Dosage form
Injection, Solution
Route
Intramuscular
Marketing category
ANDA · ANDA
Labeler
GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS INC., USA
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
1
NDC product codes
8
Packages
9
Data completeness
83% 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
17

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
214926
Application type
ANDA · Abbreviated New Drug Application
Approval date
October 13, 2023
Sponsor
GLAND
Products on application
1
Submissions recorded
1
Products approved under application 214926.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
214926-001 FOSPHENYTOIN SODIUM INJECTABLE FOSPHENYTOIN SODIUM Prescription AP

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AP
Reference Listed Drug
No
Reference Standard
No

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 214926.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Original application 1 Approved October 13, 2023 Standard

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260218). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260218 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260218 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20241218 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20231017

Boxed Warning

openFDA Drug Labeling

WARNING: CARDIOVASCULAR RISK ASSOCIATED WITH RAPID INFUSION RATES The rate of intravenous Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection. 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection . Reduction in rate of administration or discontinuation of dosing may be needed ( 2.3 , 2.4 , 5.2 ).

Recent Major Changes

openFDA Drug Labeling

RECENT MAJOR CHANGES Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 , 2.4 ) 3/2017 Contraindications ( 4 ) 3/2017 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) 3/2017 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14 ) 10/2017 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.17 ) 3/2017

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection, USP is indicated for the treatment of generalized tonic-clonic status epilepticus and prevention and treatment of seizures occurring during neurosurgery. Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection, USP can also be substituted, short-term, for oral phenytoin. Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection, USP should be used only when oral phenytoin administration is not possible [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection, USP is indicated for the treatment of generalized tonic-clonic status epilepticus and prevention and treatment of seizures occurring during neurosurgery. Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection, USP can also be substituted, as short-term use, for oral phenytoin. Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection, USP 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 fosphenytoin sodium injection 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 Fosphenytoin sodium injection should ordinarily not be given intramuscularly ( 2.3 , 2.4 ) 2.1 Important Administration Instructions to Avoid Dosing Errors Use caution when administering fosphenytoin sodium injection because of the risk of dosing errors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Phenytoin Sodium Equivalents (PE) The dose, concentration, and infusion rate of fosphenytoin sodium injection 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. Fosphenytoin sodium injection 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 fosphenytoin sodium injection 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 fosphenytoin sodium injection 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 fosphenytoin sodium injection is withdrawn from the vial when preparing the dose for administration. Attention to these details may prevent some fosphenytoin sodium injection medication errors from occurring. 2.2 Preparation Prior to intravenous (IV) infusion, dilute fosphenytoin sodium injection 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 fosphenytoin sodium injection in any solution should be 25 mg PE/mL. When fosphenytoin sodium injection is given as an IV infusion, fosphenytoin sodium injection 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 fosphenytoin sodium injection 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 fosphenytoin sodium injection infusions. • Because the full antiepileptic effect of phenytoin, whether given as fosphenytoin sodium injection or parenteral phenytoin, is not immediate, other measures, including concomitant administration …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Fosphenytoin sodium Injection, USP 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 per 10 mL (50 mg PE per mL) 2 mL single-dose injection vials, each containing 100 mg PE per 2 mL (50 mg PE per mL) Injection: 50 mg phenytoin sodium equivalents (PE)/mL available as: 10 mL single-dose injection vials, each containing 500 mg PE per 10 mL (50 mg PE per mL) ( 3 ) 2 mL single-dose injection vials, each containing 100 mg PE per 2 mL (50 mg PE per mL) ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Fosphenytoin sodium is contraindicated in patients with: • A history of hypersensitivity to fosphenytoin sodium injection 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 fosphenytoin sodium on ventricular automaticity. • A history of prior acute hepatotoxicity attributable to fosphenytoin sodium 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 fosphenytoin sodium, 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 fosphenytoin sodium 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, Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection 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 ) Hematopoietic Complications : If occurs, follow-up observation is indicated and an alternative antiepileptic treatment should be used. ( 5.8 ) 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection for phenytoin sodium or vice versa. For example, if a patient is receiving 1000 mg PE of Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection, that is equivalent to 1000 mg of phenytoin sodium. Concentration of 50 mg PE/mL Medication errors associated with Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection have resulted in patients receiving the wrong dose of fosphenytoin. Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection should always be expressed in milligrams of phenytoin equivalents (mg PE) [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] . Additionally, when ordering and storing Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection, 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection is withdrawn from the vial when preparing the drug for administration. Attention to these details may prevent some Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection medication errors from occurring. 5.2 Cardiovascular Risk Associated with Rapid Infusion Rapid intravenous administration of Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection administration should not exceed 150 mg phenytoin …

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 Gland Pharma Limited at 864-879-9994 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 fosphenytoin sodium 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 fosphenytoin sodium, it should not exceed 150 mg PE/min [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . The adverse reactions most commonly observed with the use of fosphenytoin sodium 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 fosphenytoin sodium administration and occurred more often with IV fosphenytoin sodium administration than with IM fosphenytoin sodium 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 fosphenytoin sodium 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 fosphenytoin sodium 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium: 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. …

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 fosphenytoin sodium with other drugs that significantly bind to serum albumin. The most significant drug interactions following administration of fosphenytoin sodium 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 fosphenytoin sodium 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 Fosphenytoin sodium Table 6 includes commonly occurring drug interactions that affect phenytoin (the active metabolite of fosphenytoin sodium) 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, a theophylline Drugs that may either increase or decrease phenytoin serum levels Antiepileptic drugs Phenobarbital, valproate sodium, valproic acid a The induction potency of St. John’s wort may vary widely based on preparation. 7.2 Drugs Affected by Phenytoin or Fosphenytoin Sodium Table 7 includes commonly occurring drug interactions affected by phenytoin (the active metabolite of fosphenytoin sodium). 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 …

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy: Phenytoin (the active metabolite of fosphenytoin sodium injection) 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 fosphenytoin sodium, during pregnancy. Physicians are advised to recommend that pregnant patients taking fosphenytoin sodium 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 fosphenytoin sodium) 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 …

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 Fosphenytoin sodium injection, USP is a prodrug intended for parenteral administration; its active metabolite is phenytoin. 1.5 mg of fosphenytoin sodium USP 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. Fosphenytoin sodium injection, USP is marketed in 2 mL vials containing a total of 100 mg PE per 2 mL (50 mg PE per mL) and 10 mL vials containing a total of 500 mg PE per 10mL (50 mg PE per mL), for intravenous or intramuscular administration. The concentration of each vial is 50 mg PE per mL. Fosphenytoin sodium injection, USP is supplied in vials as a sterile solution in Water for Injection, USP, and Tromethamine, USP (TRIS) (12 mg per mL), buffer adjusted to pH 8.6 to 9.0 with either Hydrochloric Acid, NF, or Sodium Hydroxide, NF. Fosphenytoin sodium injection, USP 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. structural formula

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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection. Because Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection) 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 Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection, USP is a clear, colorless to pale yellow solution supplied as follows: NDC Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection, USP Package Factor (50 mg PE per mL) 25021-798-02 100 mg PE per 2 mL Single-Dose Vial 25 vials per carton 25021-798-10 500 mg PE per 10 mL Single-Dose Vial 10 vials per carton Both sizes of vials contain Tromethamine, USP (TRIS), Hydrochloric Acid, NF, or Sodium Hydroxide, NF, and Water for Injection, USP. Fosphenytoin sodium injection, USP 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. Sterile, Nonpyrogenic, Preservative-free. The container closure is not made with natural rubber latex.

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.

Recalls

Source: FDA Enforcement
Drug recall enforcement reports associated with this product.
Classification Reported Firm Reason Status
Class II August 8, 2012 West-ward Pharmaceutical Corp. Presence of Particulate Matter: This product is being recalled due to the discovery of particles in the stability samples and retain samples. Terminated
Class II August 8, 2012 West-ward Pharmaceutical Corp. Presence of Particulate Matter: This product is being recalled due to the discovery of particles in the stability samples and retain samples. Terminated

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
68462-621-54 68462-621 GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS INC., USA 25 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (68462-621-54) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (68462-621-02) October 13, 2023
68462-622-64 68462-622 GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS INC., USA 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (68462-622-64) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (68462-622-10) October 13, 2023
68462-945-64 68462-945 GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS INC., USA 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (68462-945-64) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (68462-945-10) May 28, 2025
68083-460-25 68083-460 Gland Pharma Limited 25 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (68083-460-25) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (68083-460-01) October 13, 2023
68083-461-10 68083-461 Gland Pharma Limited 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (68083-461-10) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (68083-461-01) October 13, 2023
25021-798-02 25021-798 Sagent Pharmaceuticals 25 VIAL in 1 CARTON (25021-798-02) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL January 15, 2025
25021-798-10 25021-798 Sagent Pharmaceuticals 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (25021-798-10) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL January 15, 2025
0143-9782-10 0143-9782 West-Ward Pharmaceuticals Corp 10 VIAL in 1 PACKAGE (0143-9782-10) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL (0143-9782-01) December 2, 2009
0143-9788-25 0143-9788 West-Ward Pharmaceuticals Corp 25 VIAL in 1 PACKAGE (0143-9788-25) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL (0143-9788-01) December 2, 2009
68462-621 68462-621 GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS INC., USA — October 13, 2023
68462-622 68462-622 GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS INC., USA — October 13, 2023
68462-945 68462-945 GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS INC., USA — May 28, 2025
68083-460 68083-460 Gland Pharma Limited — October 13, 2023
68083-461 68083-461 Gland Pharma Limited — October 13, 2023
25021-798 25021-798 Sagent Pharmaceuticals — January 15, 2025
0143-9782 0143-9782 West-Ward Pharmaceuticals Corp — December 2, 2009
0143-9788 0143-9788 West-Ward Pharmaceuticals Corp — December 2, 2009

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
Enforcement FDA Recall records

Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.