What is Mesantoin used for?

Mesantoin is indicated for Epilepsy, Epilepsy characterized by intractable complex partial seizures, Localization-related epilepsy, Motor cortex epilepsy.

Mesantoin is developed by Novartis.

What development phase is Mesantoin in?

Mesantoin is FDA-approved (marketed).

What is the generic name of Mesantoin?

MEPHENYTOIN is the generic (nonproprietary) name of Mesantoin.

Last reviewed 2026-04-20 · How we verify

Mesantoin (MEPHENYTOIN)

Novartis · FDA-approved approved Small molecule Quality 35/100

Mesantoin (mephenytoin) is a small molecule anti-epileptic agent developed by Novartis, targeting the sodium channel alpha subunit. It was FDA-approved in 1946 for the treatment of epilepsy, including intractable complex partial seizures and localization-related epilepsy. As an off-patent medication, it is no longer protected by active patents, allowing for generic manufacturers. However, there are currently no generic manufacturers available. Mesantoin is used to control seizures by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.

At a glance

Generic name	MEPHENYTOIN
Sponsor	Novartis
Drug class	Anti-epileptic Agent
Target	Sodium channel alpha subunit
Modality	Small molecule
Therapeutic area	Neuroscience
Phase	FDA-approved
First approval	1946

Approved indications

Epilepsy
Epilepsy characterized by intractable complex partial seizures
Localization-related epilepsy
Motor cortex epilepsy

Common side effects

No common side effects on file.

Drug interactions

fluorouracil
levonorgestrel
trimethoprim

Key clinical trials

Metabolic Capacity of Israeli Populations (NA)

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

Source	Used for
FDA label	Mechanism, indications, dosing, boxed warnings, drug interactions
ClinicalTrials.gov	Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results