Digoxin is derived from the leaves of a digitalis plan and plays an important part in enhancing the strength and regularity of heart contractions.
Mainly prescribed for the treatment of heart failure, it is also utilized in the management of atrial fibrillation, a disorder of the heart's upper chambers (atria) that affects blood flow into the heart.
Digoxin Mechanism Of Action
Digoxin mechanism of action takes two primary routes, each of which is applied to the specific medical purpose and requirement.
2. Positive Ionotropic Effect
The mechanism behind this works by enhancing the heart’s contract strength by temporarily inhibiting the activity of the myocardial Na-K ATPase pump.
Myocardial Na-K ATPase pump is an enzyme that operates to regulate ion movement into the heart.
This leads to an increase in intracellular sodium, which in turn prompts an influx of calcium, improving contractility.
Not only does it help in increasing the cardiac output but also lowers the ventricular filling pressures.
2. AV Node Inhibition
This medicine depicts vagomimetic properties on the atrioventricular (AV) node.
As the parasympathetic nervous system gets stimulated, it helps to decelerate electrical conduction in the AV node, which in turn reduces the heart rate.
High calcium levels result in prolonged phase 4 and phase 0 of the cardiac action potential, thereby extending the AV node's refractory period.
This slower conduction through the AV node results in a reduced ventricular response.
Digoxin Uses
When going for digoxin use, it is recommended that you follow your healthcare provider’s precise instructions.
Make sure to follow all the directions and guidelines on your prescription label and instruction sheets.
For optimal results, it is best to administer oral medicine at the same time each day.
In the case of liquid medicine, utilize the provided dosing syringe or a designated medicine dose-measuring device for better precision.
Do not stop taking the medicine on your own if you observe an improvement in your symptoms. To make sure, you do not run out of medication, refill your prescription timely.
When administered through an injection, digoxin will be given as a shot into a muscle or as an infusion into a vein.
Your healthcare professional will decide to opt for the injection if you are unable to take the medication orally.
When you are using the medicine, it is important to
- Monitor your blood pressure as well as heart rate frequently.
- Go for regular blood tests and kidney function evaluation.
- Do not discontinue the medicine all of a sudden as it may worsen the condition.
Store the medicine at room temperature, keeping it away from moisture and heat.
Side Effects
Some of the common side effects include:
- Nausea and diarrhea.
- Weakness or dizziness.
- Headaches.
- Anxiety, or depression.
- Development of a rash.
Stay alert and seek immediate medical attention if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction to this medicine.
These signs may include:
- Hives.
- Difficulties in Breathing.
- face, lips, tongue, or throat swelling.
You may need to immediately seek medical attention if you experience any of the following side effects:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain.
- Rapid, slow, or irregular heart rate.
- A sensation of light-headedness, as if you might faint.
- Presence of bloody or dark, tar-like stools.
- Confusion, weakness, hallucinations, unusual thoughts, or atypical behavior.
- Swelling or tenderness in the breast area.
- Blurred or yellowed vision.
Note that the severity of side effects differs in children and adults.
Serious side effects are more likely to be observed in older adults and individuals who are previously unwell or weak.
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