Indicated for: heart failure; cardiac arrhythmias
Route of administration: oral
Substance: digoxin (antiarrhythmic)
ATC: C01AA05 (Cardiovascular system | Cardiac glycosides | Digitalis glycosides)
Digoxin is a medication used to treat heart failure and certain types of arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. It belongs to the class of cardiac glycosides and works by increasing the force of heart contractions (positive inotropic effect) and slowing the heart rate (negative chronotropic effect), thereby improving the efficiency of heart function.
It is available in the form of tablets, oral solution, or injectable solution, with the dosage adjusted based on the patient's condition, kidney function, and serum digoxin levels.
Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, dizziness, confusion, visual disturbances (such as halos or blurred vision), and arrhythmias. Digoxin toxicity is a serious complication and is more likely to occur in patients with kidney impairment or electrolyte imbalances (such as hypokalemia).
Digoxin is contraindicated in cases of ventricular fibrillation, complete atrioventricular block without a pacemaker, or hypersensitivity to the drug. Patients should be closely monitored, and serum digoxin levels should be checked regularly to prevent toxicity.