digoxin (DIGOXIN)
What is Digoxin?
Digoxin is a medication used to treat heart conditions, particularly heart failure and irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias). It works by increasing the force of the heart's contractions and helping to control the rhythm of the heart, making it more efficient in pumping blood.
What is the usual dose of Digoxin?
The usual dose of Digoxin for adults is 0.125–0.25 mg per day, taken orally. Children and elderly individuals may require adjusted doses. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for the correct dose based on your specific condition.
How do I take Digoxin?
Take Digoxin with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. It's usually taken as a tablet or oral liquid. Ensure you do not skip doses and take it at the same time each day.
For how long do I take Digoxin?
The duration of Digoxin treatment depends on the condition you're treating. It may be taken long-term for heart failure or arrhythmias, while short-term use may be prescribed for acute conditions. Your doctor will guide you on the appropriate duration.
What disease or symptom is Digoxin used for?
Digoxin is a medication used to help the heart pump more efficiently. It's used to treat mild to moderate heart failure in adults and to improve heart function in children with heart failure. It can also help control the heart rate in people with a certain type of irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation.
How long does it take for Digoxin to start working?
Digoxin starts working within a few hours to a couple of days. However, its full effect on heart function may take several days to weeks, especially in cases of heart failure.
Is Digoxin effective?
Yes, Digoxin is effective in treating heart failure and certain arrhythmias. It helps improve heart function and reduces symptoms, such as shortness of breath and fatigue, leading to better quality of life.
How do I know if Digoxin is working?
Digoxin is a medicine used to treat heart failure. Doctors can check your blood to see how much Digoxin is in your body. This helps them know if you're getting the right amount. Most people who are taking enough Digoxin have levels between 0.8 and 2.0 ng/mL in their blood. Doctors also look at how you're feeling and how well your heart is working. Studies have shown that Digoxin can help people with heart failure stay out of the hospital and improve their ability to exercise.
How does Digoxin work?
Digoxin increases the strength of heart contractions and helps regulate the rhythm by inhibiting an enzyme that controls sodium and potassium balance in heart cells. This improves the efficiency of the heart's pumping action.
Who should avoid taking Digoxin?
People with certain conditions, like severe kidney disease, irregular heart rhythms, or electrolyte imbalances (especially low potassium), should avoid taking Digoxin unless recommended by a healthcare provider. Pregnant women should consult their doctor before use.
Can I take Digoxin with other prescription drugs?
Digoxin can interact with several medications, including diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and certain antibiotics, which can either increase Digoxin levels or reduce its effectiveness. Always tell your healthcare provider about other medications you're taking.
Can Digoxin be taken safely while pregnant?
Digoxin is classified as a Category C drug during pregnancy, meaning it should only be used if clearly needed and prescribed by your doctor. Risks to the fetus are not well established, so it's essential to discuss alternatives with your doctor.
Can Digoxin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Digoxin levels in breast milk are similar to the mother's blood levels. However, the amount of Digoxin that reaches the baby through breast milk is much lower than the usual dose given to babies. This means that Digoxin in breast milk usually won't cause any side effects in the baby. However, it's still important to be cautious and talk to a doctor before giving Digoxin to a nursing mother.
Is Digoxin safe for the elderly?
For older adults, the amount of Digoxin needed should take into account their kidney function. Monitoring their kidney function can be helpful. Older adults are more likely to have decreased kidney function, which increases the risk of harmful effects from Digoxin. Those with impaired kidney function need lower maintenance doses to avoid toxicity that lasts a long time.
How should I store Digoxin?
Keep the medicine in a cool place, between 68° to 77°F (20° to 25°C), away from sunlight.
Does Digoxin make people tired or drowsy?
Tiredness or dizziness is a possible side effect of Digoxin, particularly when first starting treatment or after dosage adjustments. If these effects are bothersome, consult your doctor for alternatives or dosage adjustments.
Does Digoxin cause stomach upset?
Stomach upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, can occur with Digoxin, especially if blood levels are too high. If you experience these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for evaluation.
Does Digoxin affect sleep?
Digoxin typically does not affect sleep, but any issues like fatigue or dizziness may impact rest. Speak with your doctor if you notice changes in your sleep patterns.
Does Digoxin make it hard to think or concentrate?
Some people may experience confusion or difficulty concentrating while taking Digoxin, especially if the dosage is too high. Monitor for these effects and inform your doctor if they occur.
Does Digoxin affect mood?
Digoxin is not known to significantly affect mood. However, if you experience mood swings, confusion, or depression, consult your doctor as these could be related to underlying conditions or side effects.
Does Digoxin interfere with sexual function?
Digoxin is not typically associated with sexual side effects, though underlying heart conditions or side effects like dizziness may affect your ability to engage in sexual activities. Talk to your doctor for guidance if this occurs.
Does Digoxin affect appetite?
Appetite loss is a possible side effect of Digoxin. If you notice a significant reduction in appetite or other digestive symptoms, consult your healthcare provider to determine whether adjustments are necessary.
Does Digoxin cause weight gain?
Digoxin is not commonly associated with weight gain. However, if you are being treated for heart failure, any changes in weight should be monitored as part of overall symptom management.
Does Digoxin cause headaches?
Headaches are not a common side effect of Digoxin, but some people may experience them, especially if the dose is too high or if Digoxin levels become toxic. Contact your doctor if headaches occur frequently.
Does Digoxin limit driving?
Digoxin can cause dizziness or fatigue, which may affect your ability to drive safely. If you feel impaired in any way, it’s important to avoid driving and consult your doctor for guidance.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Digoxin?
Drinking alcohol in moderation may not affect Digoxin significantly, but alcohol can worsen heart conditions and increase the risk of side effects, including dizziness or fainting. Limit alcohol intake and talk to your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Digoxin?
Caffeine in coffee or tea does not directly affect Digoxin. However, excessive caffeine can impact your heart’s rhythm and blood pressure, so it’s important to consume it in moderation if you're taking Digoxin.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Digoxin?
Exercise is generally safe when taking Digoxin, but excessive physical strain can affect your heart function. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure a safe level of exercise, especially if you have underlying heart conditions.
What are Digoxin possible harms and risks?
Common side effects of Digoxin include nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, and confusion. Serious side effects may include arrhythmias and toxicity, especially if blood levels of Digoxin become too high. Monitor for symptoms of overdose.
Available in 2 variations
Digoxin 0.25mg Tablet
Digoxin 0.25mg Tablet
Digoxin (0.25mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Digoxin 50mcg/ml Elixir
Digoxin 50mcg/ml Elixir
Digoxin (50mcg/ml)
bottle of 30 elixirs
Similar Medicines
Digoxin (0.25mg)
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