What is digoxin?
Digoxin is derived from the leaves of a digitalis plant. Digoxin helps make the heart beat stronger and with a more regular rhythm.
Digoxin is used to treat heart failure.
Digoxin is also used to treat atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder of the atria (the upper chambers of the heart that allow blood to flow into the heart).
Important information about digoxin
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to digoxin, or if you have ventricular fibrillation (a heart rhythm disorder of the ventricles, or lower chambers of the heart that allow blood to flow out of the heart).
Before using digoxin, tell your doctor if you have certain heart conditions, especially "AV block" (unless you have a pacemaker), or a recent history of heart attack. Also tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, a thyroid disorder, an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of calcium, potassium, or magnesium in your blood), or if you are malnourished or have recently been sick with vomiting or diarrhoea.
Do not stop taking digoxin without first talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.
Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise, in hot weather, or by not drinking enough fluids. Digoxin overdose can occur more easily if you are dehydrated.
There are many other drugs that can interact with digoxin. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to any healthcare provider who treats you.
Before taking digoxin
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to digoxin, or if you have ventricular fibrillation (a heart rhythm disorder of the ventricles, or lower chambers of the heart that allow blood to flow out of the heart).
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