MedDataToolDigoxin is a medication used to treat mild to moderate heart failure in adults and children, as well as to help control heart rate in adults with chronic atrial fibrillation. It works by increasing the strength of heart contractions and slowing down the heart rate, which helps the heart pump more efficiently. Digoxin is usually taken by mouth in the form of a tablet, with a typical starting dose for adults being between 3.4 to 5.1 micrograms per kilogram once daily, and the dose can be adjusted based on how well it works and any side effects. It's important to know that digoxin should not be used if you have a condition called ventricular fibrillation or if you have had an allergic reaction to it before. Additionally, certain antibiotics can affect how digoxin works in your body, so it's important to tell your doctor if you are taking any antibiotics while on this medication.
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Uses
- Mild to moderate heart failure in adults.
- Heart failure in pediatric patients.
- Control of resting ventricular rate in chronic atrial fibrillation in adults.
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Dosage
Adult dosing is based on age, weight, and kidney function.
Pediatric dosing varies by weight and age, with specific doses for ages 5-10.
Doses can be started with a loading dose or directly with maintenance dosing.
Monitor digoxin levels to avoid toxicity.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
Nauseavomitingabdominal painheadachedizziness
Serious
Cardiac arrhythmiasdigoxin toxicityconfusionhallucinations
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Monitor for signs of digoxin toxicity.
- Use caution in elderly patients due to slower drug elimination.
- Drug interactions can increase digoxin levels, leading to toxicity.
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Drug interactions
- Amiodaroneincreases digoxin levels by 70%Monitor
- Verapamilincreases digoxin levels by 50-75%Monitor
- Quinidineincreases digoxin levels by 100%Monitor
- Dronedaroneincreases risk of sudden deathMonitor
- ACE inhibitorsmay impair digoxin excretionCaution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).