Digoxin, sold under the brand name Lanoxin, is a medication used to treat various heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and heart failure. It can be taken orally or by injection into a vein.
Uses of Digoxin
Treats heart failure, usually in combination with other medications.
Treats certain types of irregular heartbeat, such as chronic atrial fibrillation.
Helps improve the strength of the heart, maintain the ability to walk and exercise, and stabilize heart rhythm.
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Digoxin belongs to the class of medications known as cardiac glycosides. It works by affecting the balance of sodium and potassium in heart cells, which helps reduce the strain on the heart and maintain a normal, steady, and strong heartbeat.
How to Use Digoxin
Take orally with or without food, usually once a day as directed by your doctor.
For the liquid form, use the provided dropper for accurate dosing; do not use a household spoon.
Take at least 2 hours before or after consuming high-fiber foods or certain medications like cholestyramine, colestipol, or psyllium.
If taking antacids, kaolin-pectin, milk of magnesia, metoclopramide, sulfasalazine, or aminosalicylic acid, space them as far apart from your digoxin dose as possible.
Dosage is based on medical condition, age, body weight, lab tests, and response to treatment.
Use regularly at the same time every day to maximize benefits and avoid sudden discontinuation without consulting your doctor.
Interactions may alter how your medications work or increase side effects.
Inform your doctor about all medicines you use, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Be cautious with products that may worsen heart failure, such as NSAIDs.
Monitoring
Regular blood tests (e.g., digoxin levels, blood mineral levels), kidney function tests, and electrocardiograms are necessary.
Keep all medical and laboratory appointments.
Learn to check your blood pressure and pulse at home and share results with your doctor.
Missed Dose
Take the missed dose within 12 hours of the scheduled time. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, trouble breathing, and abnormal heart rhythms. Seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Protect from sunlight and humidity; do not store in the bathroom.
Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets.
Properly dispose of expired or no longer needed medications as per local regulations or consult your pharmacist.
Comparison: Digoxin vs. Metoprolol
Attribute
Digoxin
Metoprolol
Brand Name
Lanoxin
Lopressor
Formula
C41H64O14
C15H25NO3
Primary Use
Treats heart failure, chronic atrial fibrillation
Treats high blood pressure, chest pain, and fast heart conditions
Medication Class
Cardiac glycoside
Beta-blocker
Administration
Can be taken with or without food
Should be taken before meals or at bedtime
For any further information, always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Digoxin is used to control certain heart problems, including irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias) like atrial fibrillation, and to manage symptoms of heart failure, often alongside other medications. It is available only with a prescription.
2. What class of drug is digoxin?
Digoxin belongs to a class of drugs known as digitalis glycosides. It is used to strengthen the contraction of the heart muscle or to regulate the rate and rhythm of the heartbeat.
3. How does digoxin work?
Digoxin increases the strength of the heart's contraction by inhibiting the enzyme ATPase, which controls the movement of calcium, sodium, and potassium into the heart muscle. This enhancement in calcium levels helps regulate the heart's contraction force.
4. What is the most common first sign of digoxin toxicity?
Common initial signs of digoxin toxicity include confusion, irregular pulse, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a rapid heartbeat.
5. Who should not take digoxin?
Digoxin should not be used in individuals with ventricular fibrillation or Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, as it can worsen abnormal heart rhythms in these conditions.
6. Is digoxin safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are at higher risk of digoxin toxicity. Low doses of digoxin may be effective in treating heart failure in this population, potentially reducing the risk of toxicity.
7. Does digoxin lower blood pressure?
Digoxin does not directly affect blood pressure. It may be prescribed for individuals with atrial fibrillation who have naturally low blood pressure, as alternative rate-control treatments might lower blood pressure.
8. Should digoxin be taken at night?
Digoxin is typically taken in the morning. If you experience vomiting, diarrhea, blurred or yellow vision, or dizziness, contact your doctor promptly for advice.
9. How safe is digoxin?
Digoxin can have serious side effects, including life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, severe bradycardia (slow heart rate), heart block, and neurological issues like confusion and visual disturbances. Close monitoring is essential to manage potential toxicity.
10. Can digoxin affect the kidneys?
Some research suggests that digoxin may improve renal function in certain patients over the long term. However, more studies are needed to confirm this potential benefit.
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