Influence of dietary components on the bioavailability of phenytoin.

Abstract
The influence of food on the bioavailability of the anticonvulsant phenytoin was studied in man. A balanced meal enhanced the bioavailability significantly. A high lipid meal caused larger inter-subject variation in bioavailability. Phenytoin-polyvinylpyrrolidone coprecipitate was administered with and without the balanced meal. The bioavailability of phenytoin administered in this form was enhanced markedly and was not greatly influenced by food intake.