Drug Name

Lanoxin (Digoxin)

Drug Uses

Lanoxin 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 Lanoxin as directed by your doctor.

• Lanoxin may be taken with or without food.
• Using Lanoxin at the same time each day will help you to remember.

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

Drug Class and Mechanism

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

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Lanoxin , take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store at the room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Keep out of the reach of children.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Lanoxin if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Lanoxin 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.

Important:

• Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Lanoxin before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.
• Lab tests, including electrocardiogram (ECG), electrolytes, and blood digoxin levels, may be performed while you use Lanoxin . These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
• Use Lanoxin with caution in the elderly; they may be more sensitive to its effects.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Lanoxin while you are pregnant. Lanoxin is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Lanoxin, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Possible Side Effects

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

• diarrhea; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; loss of appetite; nausea; vomiting; weakness.

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); heart disturbances.

More Information

Lanoxin is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.