What can be done to reduce the side effects of phenytoin?

My response: First, phenytoin is an 80 yo archaic drug, which due to its numerous problems would never be approved these days by the American FDA. Best way to reduce side effects is to find a better drug and slowly taper off your current drug, closely working with your doctor.

Dilantin: There are a number of side effects with phenytoin, notwithstanding the kinetics of metabolism. Rather than trying to manage this, there are a number of medications that can be transitioned to, such as Lamictal or Keppra, which could be better particularly in your age group given the extended release forms. Suggest you speak with your doctor regarding the potential to be changed over.