What is "ethotoin"

n. An anticonvulsant drug used in the treatment of epilepsy.

Ethotoin (marketed as Peganone by Ovation) is an anticonvulsant drug used in the treatment of epilepsy. It is a hydantoin, similar to phenytoin. Ethotoin lacks phenytoin's side effects of gingival hyperplasia and hirsutism; however, it is less effective. This, combined with the need for frequent dosing has limited its usefulness. Ethotoin is no longer widely used.