Effect of phenytoin on sodium conductances in rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons.

The antiepileptic drug phenytoin (PHT) is thought to reduce the excitability of neural tissue by stabilizing sodium channels (Na) in inactivated states. It has been suggested the fast-inactivated state (I) is the main target, although slow inactivation (I) has also been implicated. Other studies on local anesthetics with similar effects on sodium channels have implicated the Na voltage sensor interactions.