Details

Digoxin is derived from the leaves of a digitalis plant. Digoxin helps make the heart beat stronger and with a more regular rhythm. Digoxin is used to treat heart failure. Digoxin is also used to treat atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder of the atria (the upper chambers of the heart that allow blood to flow into the heart). To make sure digoxin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have a serious heart condition such as "sick sinus syndrome" or "AV block" (unless you have a pacemaker) a recent history of heart attack sudden fast heartbeats kidney disease a thyroid disorder an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of calcium, potassium, or magnesium in your blood) if you are malnourished or have recently been sick with vomiting or diarrhoea or if you take a diuretic (water pill), or use steroid medicine.

Typical Uses

Digoxin is used to treat heart failure, usually along with other medications. It is also used to treat a certain type of irregular heartbeat (chronic atrial fibrillation). Treating heart failure may help maintain your ability to walk and exercise and may improve the strength of your heart. Treating an irregular heartbeat can decrease the risk for blood clots, an effect that may reduce your risk for a heart attack or stroke.

Side Effects

Some of the side effects of digoxin include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite fast, slow, or uneven heart rate bloody or black, tarry stools blurred vision, yellowed vision or confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behaviour. Serious side effects may be more likely in older adults and those who are ill or debilitated.

Drug Interactions

• Digoxin+adenosine- Before getting treatment with adenosine, let your doctor know if you are currently using digoxin. Combining these medications can increase the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications.

• Digoxin+atazanavir- Using atazanavir together with digoxin can increase the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious. You should seek immediate medical attention if you develop sudden dizziness, light headedness, fainting, or irregular heartbeat during treatment with these drugs, whether together or alone. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs.

• Digoxin+dolasetron- Talk to your doctor before using dolasetron together with digoxin. Combining these medications can increase the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious. You may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use both medications.

• Digoxin+quinidine- Talk to your doctor before using digoxin together with quinidine. Combining these medications may significantly increase the blood levels and effects of digoxin. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact, or you may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications.

Mechanism of action

Digoxin belongs to a class of medications called cardiac glycosides. It works by affecting certain minerals (sodium and potassium) inside heart cells. This reduces strain on the heart and helps it maintain a normal, steady, and strong heartbeat.

Pregnancy Category : C