About digoxin
Cardiac glycoside
Used for
- Heart failure with reduced pumping function
- Control of heart rate in atrial fibrillation or flutter
Usual adult dose
Doses are individualized; typical total intravenous loading is 0.5–1 mg in divided doses, followed by 0.125–0.25 mg daily.
Usual dose in children
Specialist-calculated by age, weight, and kidney function; doses are given in divided amounts.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness, confusion, or weakness
- Visual changes, including blurred or yellow vision
Important warnings
- Toxicity can cause dangerous heart rhythms and may occur near usual blood levels.
- Kidney impairment, older age, and low potassium increase toxicity risk.
- Blood levels, kidney function, electrolytes, and heart rhythm require monitoring.
- Intravenous doses require careful administration and clinical monitoring.
Pregnancy
May be used when clinically needed; specialist monitoring is important because pregnancy can alter digoxin levels.
Breastfeeding
Digoxin passes into breast milk in small amounts; it is generally compatible with breastfeeding.
Interactions
- Amiodarone, verapamil, and quinidine can raise digoxin levels.
- Some antibiotics, including clarithromycin, can increase digoxin exposure.
- Diuretics that lower potassium can increase toxicity risk.
- Antacids and some binding medicines can reduce absorption of oral digoxin.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.