Brand name Lanoxin
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Digoxin is the most widely used form of digitalis, a drug extracted from the leaves of the foxglove plant. It is sometimes given in the treatment of congestive heart failure and certain alterations of heart rhythm.
Digoxin slows down the rate of the heart so that each beat is more effective in pumping blood. In congestive heart failure it also helps to control tiredness, breathlessness, and fluid retention. Its effects are not as long lasting as
those of other digitalis drugs, and this makes any adverse reactions easier to control. For digoxin to be effective, the dose must be very near the toxic dose, and the treatment must be monitored closely. A number of adverse effects (see below) may indicate that the toxic level is being reached and should be reported to your doctor immediately.
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets, liquid, injection.
Frequency and timing of doses
Up to 3 x daily (starting dose); once daily (maintenance dose).
Adult dosage range
0.0625-0.25mg daily (by mouth).
Onset of effect
Within a few minutes (injection); within 12 hours (by mouth).
Duration of action
Up to 4 days.
Diet advice
This drug may be more toxic if potassium levels are depleted, so you should include fresh fruit and vegetables in your diet.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
The possible adverse effects of digoxin are the blood. Any symptoms should be reported usually due to increased levels of the drug in to your doctor without delay.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 8 hours, take a dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor; stopping the drug may lead to worsening of the underlying condition.
OVERDOSE ACTION
Seek immediate medical advice in all cases. Take emergency action if palpitations, severe weakness, chest pain, or loss of consciousness occur.
See Drug poisoning emergency guide.
INTERACTIONS
General note Many drugs interact with digoxin. Do not take any medication without your doctor or pharmacist’s advice.
Diuretics may increase the risk of adverse effects from digoxin.
Antacids may reduce the effects of digoxin. The effect of digoxin may increase when such drugs are stopped.
Anti-arrhythmic drugs may increase blood levels of digoxin.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Digitalis drug
Overdose danger rating High
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have a long-term liver problem.
You have thyroid trouble.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
No evidence of risk.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into breast milk, but at normal doses adverse effects on the baby are unlikely. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Reduced dose necessary.
Over 60
Increased likelihood of adverse effects. Reduced dose may therefore be necessary.
Driving and hazardous work
Special problems are unlikely, but do not undertake these activities until you
know how digoxin affects you.
Alcohol
No special problems.
PROLONGED USE
No problems expected.
Monitoring
Periodic checks on blood levels of digoxin and body salts may beadvised.
