What class of drug is digoxin?
Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside. It is used for certain heart rhythm and heart failure conditions, including atrial fibrillation and heart failure in selected patients [1].
How does digoxin work (mechanism of action)?
Digoxin inhibits the Na+/K+-ATPase pump in heart cells. This leads to increased intracellular calcium, which strengthens heart muscle contraction and affects electrical signaling through the heart, helping slow the heart rate in some arrhythmias [1].
What conditions is digoxin typically used for?
Digoxin is used in clinical practice for:
- Atrial fibrillation (to help control heart rate)
- Heart failure (especially in patients with reduced ejection fraction when appropriate) [1]
What are common digoxin side effects and risks?
Digoxin has a narrow therapeutic window, meaning the dose that works can be close to the dose that causes toxicity. Common side effects and risks can include nausea, dizziness, and rhythm problems related to digoxin toxicity, which is more likely with kidney impairment or interacting drugs [1].
Does digoxin interact with other medicines?
Digoxin drug interactions are clinically important because levels and toxicity risk can rise with certain medications. For example, some drugs that affect kidney function, electrolyte balance (like potassium), or P-glycoprotein can increase digoxin exposure and toxicity risk [1].
Where can I find patent/class info for digoxin products?
DrugPatentWatch.com can be useful for tracking specific digoxin branded or generic product patent/exclusivity status and related filings [2].
Sources
[1] https://www.drugs.com/digoxin.html
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/