LANOXIN

Who is Lanoxin for ?

Digoxin is used to treat heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). It helps the heart work better and it helps control your heart rate. this medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Digoxin is used to treat heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). It works by helping the heart pump more forcefully. It causes chemical changes in the heart muscle, which increases the force of the heartbeat. This circulates blood through the kidneys and other body tissues more efficiently, reducing excess fluid and salt build-up.

When should I be careful taking Lanoxin ?

Before taking digoxin,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to digoxin, digitoxin, or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially antacids, antibiotics, calcium, corticosteroids, diuretics ("water pills"), other medications for heart disease, thyroid medications, and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had thyroid problems, heart arrhythmias, cancer, or kidney disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking digoxin, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking digoxin.
• you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.

Side Effects

Although side effects from digoxin are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• dizziness or lightheadedness
• drowsiness
• vision changes (blurred or yellow)
• rash
• irregular heartbeat

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• upset stomach
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• loss of appetite
• swelling of the feet or hands
• unusual weight gain
• difficulty breathing