Poisoning from an overdose of phenytoin.
Expectations (prognosis)
Mild overdose:
The patient can be aroused. No treatment is necessary. Moderate overdose:
The patient cannot be aroused, but vital functions are normal. Recovery is usually within 24 to 48 hours with proper treatment. Severe overdose:
The patient cannot be aroused and vital signs (temperature, pulse , rate of breathing, blood pressure ) are abnormal.
Even with proper treatment, a 3 to 5 day period may be required before the patient recovers. The fatality rate is less than 5%.