Gingival hyperplasia is a side effect of which antiseizure medication?

Gingival hyperplasia is a side effect of which antiseizure medication?

• A. Phenytoin
• B. Valproic acid
• C. Gabapentin
• D. Lamotrigine

Answer: (A)

Gingival hyperplasia is a classic adverse effect of phenytoin, an older hydantoin anticonvulsant. The overgrowth happens because phenytoin stimulates gingival fibroblast proliferation and alters collagen metabolism, leading to increased extracellular matrix in the gums due to reduced collagen breakdown. Plaque-related inflammation can further worsen the enlargement, and it’s more noticeable in younger individuals or with poorer oral hygiene. The other antiseizure medications listed—valproic acid, gabapentin, and lamotrigine—do not typically cause this gum overgrowth.

Gingival hyperplasia is a classic adverse effect of phenytoin, an older hydantoin anticonvulsant. The overgrowth happens because phenytoin stimulates gingival fibroblast proliferation and alters collagen metabolism, leading to increased extracellular matrix in the gums due to reduced collagen breakdown. Plaque-related inflammation can further worsen the enlargement, and it’s more noticeable in younger individuals or with poorer oral hygiene. The other antiseizure medications listed—valproic acid, gabapentin, and lamotrigine—do not typically cause this gum overgrowth.