Digoxin

Overview

The safe dose range is narrow, so blood levels, potassium, and kidney function are checked.

What it's used for

• Heart failure
• Slowing the heart rate in atrial fibrillation

How to take it

• Take it once a day at the same time.
• Don't switch brands or forms without asking.
• Separate it from antacids and fiber supplements.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness

Warnings

• Low potassium or magnesium and kidney problems raise the risk of toxicity.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

• Amiodarone, verapamil, diltiazem, and some antibiotics raise its level.
• Water pills that lower potassium raise toxicity risk.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

• Heart failure
• Atrial fibrillation (AFib)