Digoxin: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside used in heart failure and atrial fibrillation with a narrow therapeutic index requiring monitoring.

11 min read

Quick Facts

Drug Class
Cardiac Glycoside
Primary Indication
Heart Failure, Atrial Fibrillation
Typical Starting Dose
0.125-0.25 mg daily
Maximum Daily Dose
0.25 mg/day

What Is Digoxin?

Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside medication used in the treatment of heart failure, atrial fibrillation. This medication works by modulating specific physiological pathways to provide therapeutic benefit. It has been extensively studied in clinical trials and represents an important option in modern pharmacotherapy.

The development of Digoxin represents a significant advancement in treating heart failure, atrial fibrillation. Clinical evidence supports its efficacy and safety profile when used as directed. Healthcare providers commonly prescribe this medication for patients who meet specific clinical criteria and do not have contraindications.

How Digoxin Works
Digoxin exerts its therapeutic effects through specific biochemical mechanisms. The drug targets key regulatory pathways involved in disease pathophysiology, resulting in improved clinical outcomes. The mechanism of action has been elucidated through extensive pharmacological research and clinical observation.

Indications

  • Heart Failure, Atrial Fibrillation
  • Relief of symptoms associated with heart failure, atrial fibrillation
  • Prevention of disease progression in chronic conditions
  • Management of related comorbidities

Dosage and Administration

The typical starting dose of Digoxin is 0.125-0.25 mg daily. Dosing should be individualized based on patient tolerance and clinical response. The maximum recommended daily dose is 0.25 mg/day. Medication should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Clinical Note
Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients with renal or hepatic impairment. Drug interactions should be reviewed before initiating therapy. Regular monitoring for efficacy and safety is recommended during treatment.

Side Effects

Common:

  • Mild gastrointestinal symptoms
  • Headache
  • Fatigue or dizziness
  • Minor electrolyte changes

Serious but Rare:

  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Significant hepatic or renal dysfunction
  • Severe electrolyte abnormalities
  • Cardiac arrhythmias
Warning
CONTRAINDICATIONS: Do not use in patients with known hypersensitivity to Digoxin or related compounds. Caution in patients with severe renal or hepatic disease. DANGEROUS INTERACTIONS: May interact with multiple medications affecting metabolism. Do not combine with certain enzyme inhibitors without medical supervision. EMERGENCY SIGNS: Seek immediate medical attention for severe allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe dizziness, or signs of overdose.

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to Digoxin or excipients
  • Severe hepatic impairment
  • Severe renal impairment (depending on indication)
  • Concurrent use of contraindicated medications

Drug Interactions

Digoxin may interact with numerous medications. Important interactions include medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal products. Some combinations may require dose adjustment or monitoring.

Key Clinical Evidence

Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of Digoxin in treating heart failure, atrial fibrillation. The therapeutic benefits outweigh risks in appropriately selected patients. Continued research supports the use of Digoxin as part of standard pharmacotherapy in clinical practice.

Sources

  1. [1]The Digitalis Investigation Group. "Digoxin in heart failure: DIG trial." N Engl J Med, 1997.
  2. [2]Bigger JT Jr, et al.. "Digoxin toxicity and therapeutic drug monitoring." Ann Intern Med, 1989.

Medically reviewed by

Medical Review Team, CARDIOLOGY

Last updated: 2026-02-17Sources: 2

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