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Generic Name: digoxin

An inotropic agent - It is used to treat congestive heart failure and heart rhythm problems

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What is this medicine?

DIGOXIN (di JOX in) is used to treat congestive heart failure and heart rhythm problems.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

certain heart rhythm disorders
heart disease or recent heart attack
kidney or liver disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to digoxin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before, or 2 hours after meals. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

agents used to treat cancer
alprazolam
antacids
beta blockers or calcium-channel blockers, often used for high blood pressure or heart problems
calcium, magnesium, or potassium salts
certain medicines used to decrease cholesterol, including cholestyramine or colestipol
clarithromycin or erythromycin
diet pills (stimulants) or drugs used to control weight
diphenoxylate
diuretics
indomethacin
itraconazole
medicines to control heart rhythm like dofetilide, amiodarone, sotalol, and others
metoclopramide
neomycin
propantheline
quinine
rifampin
sodium polystyrene sulfonate
spironolactone
succinylcholine
sulfasalazine
tetracycline antibiotics like doxycycline and tetracycline
thyroid hormones

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Do not stop taking this medicine without the advice of your doctor or health care professional, even if you feel better. Do not change the brand you are taking, other brands may affect you differently.

Check your heart rate and blood pressure regularly while you are taking this medicine. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your heart rate and blood pressure should be, and when you should contact him or her. Your doctor or health care professional also may schedule regular blood tests and electrocardiograms to check your progress.

Watch your diet. Less digoxin may be absorbed from the stomach if you have a diet high in bran fiber.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds or allergies without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients can increase possible side effects.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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