Digoxin is a prescription medication used to treat heart failure. It can also treat certain kinds of irregular heartbeat, including chronic atrial fibrillation. Digoxin is available as a generic drug and as the brand name drug Lanoxin. In the following short article, we discuss digoxin uses, digoxin interactions, side effects of digoxin and digoxin dosage. Learn more about this digitalis glycoside medication.
How Does Digoxin Work?
Digoxin works by slowing down and controlling the heart rate. It works with minerals in heart cells to keep the heart beating at a normal rate.
Digoxin Toxicity
Digoxin toxicity is most likely to occur during long-term therapy as well as after an overdose. It can occur even when the serum digoxin concentration is not within a particularly dangerous range. Dixogin toxicity can cause anorexia, nausea, vomiting and neurological symptoms. It can also trigger fatal arrhythmias.
Digoxin Uses
Along with other medications, digoxin is used to treat heart failure. Treating heart failure can prolong lifespan, improve heart strength, and improve a patient's ability to walk and exercise regularly. Digoxin belongs to a class of medications known as cardiac glycosides. These medications are used to increase the force of heart contractions and prevent heart failure.
Digoxin For Afib
Digoxin has been used for more than 50 years in patients with Atrial Fibrillation (AF), also known as afib. In such cases, the goal of digoxin treatment is controlling heart rate and restoring sinus rhythm. Several studies have shown a correlation between therapeutic use of digoxin and decreased mortality.
Digoxin Interactions
Some medications can affect the removal of digoxin from the body. These include the following:
- Azole antifungals
- Macrolide antibiotics
- Dronedarone
- Rifampin
- Lapatinib
Side Effects Of Digoxin
Taking digoxin can cause some potential side effects. Some side effects are more serious and less common than others. Common side effects of digoxin may include the following:
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fast heartbeat
- Irregular heartbeat
- Slow heartbeat
Serious Side Effects Of Digoxin
Some side effects of digoxin are more serious and may require medical attention. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects. Call 9-11 if you think your symptoms may be life-threatening.
- Bleeding gums
- Black, tarry stools
- Bloody vomit
- Blood in the urine or stools
- Red spots on the skin
- Severe stomach pain
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Trouble breathing
- Nausea
- Swelling of the feet or legs
- Intense sweating
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
Disclaimer: At ManifestRX our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. Unfortunately, because drugs affect each individual differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects.
How To Take Digoxin
Take digoxin once a day with or without food. Your body may not be able to absorb digoxin as well if you eat a diet high in fiber. Take this medication at least 2 hours before eating a high-fiber meal.
Your body may not absorb digoxin if you also eat foods that are high in fiber or if you take other medications that interact with digoxin. Be sure to take digoxin m at least 2 hours before or after eating food products that are high in fiber (such as bran). Ask your pharmacist if you are not sure when to take any of your medications.
Digoxin Dosage
The recommended dosage for digoxin can vary depending on many factors, including the following:
- Your age
- Your weight
- Your condition
- Response to first dose
Digoxin Dosage For Heart Failure
Adult: Dose is based on age, weight, and condition. Usual dose is 10-15 micrograms per kilogram of body weight.
Digoxin Warnings
Certain symptoms of digoxin may indicate your dosage is too high. These side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Confusion
- Persistent diarrhea
Digoxin Precautions
Before you take digoxin, you should talk toy our doctor or pharmacist and tell them if you are allergic to any similar medications.
Your body may not absorb this drug as well if you also eat foods that are high in fiber or if you take certain medications that have a similar effect.
Digoxin Summary
Digoxin is a drug used to treat heart failure and chronic atrial fibrillation. It is available as the brand name drug Lanoxin.
Take digoxin once a day without food. Do not take digoxin immediately after eating a high-fiber meal.
