Lanoxin (Digoxin)

General information

Lanoxin is derived from the leaves of a digitalis plant. It helps make the heart beat stronger and with a more regular rhythm. Lanoxin is used to treat chronic heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It is also used to slow the heart rate in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder of the atria.

Directions

Take Lanoxin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Take it with a full glass of water. Take the medication at the same time every day. Keep taking Lanoxin as directed, even if you feel well. The usual starting dose is 0.0625-0.25 mg daily depending on age and kidney function. The dose may be increased every two weeks to achieve the desired response.

Precautions

Before using Lanoxin, tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, electrolyte imbalance, heart attack, thyroid disorder. Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated. Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.

Contraindications

You should not use Lanoxin if you are allergic to digoxin, or if you have ventricular fibrillation, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible side effect

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, skin rash, and mental changes, blurred vision, hives, difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, uneven heart rate, hallucinations, diarrhea. Get emergency medical help if you have any unusual or bothersome side effect.

Drug interactions

The following drugs can increase digoxin levels and the risk of toxicity: verapamil, quinidine, amiodarone, indomethacin, alprazolam, spironolactone, itraconazole. Tell your doctor if you are using: antacids, cancer medications, diuretics, antibiotics, beta-blocker, heart rhythm medications, steroids.

Missed dose

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. Skip the missed dose if it is time for your next scheduled dose. Don't take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose

If you think you have overdosed the medicine seek emergency medical help at once. The overdose symptoms are uneven heartbeats, nausea, loss of appetite, severe skin rash, vomiting, blurred vision, diarrhea.

Storage

Store the medicine at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store the drugs in the bathroom. Keep all drugs away from reach of children and pets.

Note

The information presented at the site has a general character. Note please this information cannot be used for self-treatment and self diagnosis. You should consult with your doctor or health care adviser regarding any specific instructions of your condition. The information is reliable, but we concede it could contain mistakes. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other damage caused by use of this information on the site and also for consequences of self-treatment.