Drug Name

Digoxin

Drug Uses

Digoxin is used for treating heart failure and slowing the heart rate in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation, a type of abnormal heart rhythm. It may also be used for certain conditions as determined by your doctor.

How Taken

Use Digoxin as directed by your doctor.

• Take Digoxin by mouth with or without food.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Digoxin.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Digoxin is a digitalis glycoside. It works by increasing the force of contraction of the heart and slowing the heart rate.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose up to 12 hours late. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do Not take a double dose of this medication.

Storage

Store Digoxin between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Digoxin out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Digoxin if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Digoxin or other digitalis medicines;
• you have Beriberi heart disease;
• you have certain types of heart rhythm problems, such as ventricular fibrillation.

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• constipation; dizziness or lightheadedness when sitting up or standing; excessive urination; headache; increased cough; nasal inflammation; nausea.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chest pain; diarrhea; dry mouth or unusual thirst; hearing loss or ringing in the ears; loss of appetite; muscle pain or cramps; rapid or irregular heartbeat; rectal bleeding; restlessness; unusual tiredness or weakness; vomiting.

More Information

If you have any questions about Digoxin, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
Digoxin is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.