Things You'll Need:
- Prescription
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Step 1
Visit your doctor is you think you may be suffering from heart disease, especially if you notice any rapid beating or unusual rhythm or if you have a family history of heart disease.
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Step 2
Know that Digoxin is available by prescription only and only your doctor can prescribe it to you.
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Step 3
Know that when the heart is weak it can attempt to compensate by beating faster to circulate more blood. This is known as a fibrillation or flutter. Digoxin treats these conditions by increasing the strength of each contraction of the heart muscle. This is also why it is effective for congestive heart failure where the heart muscle gradually weakens.
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Step 4
Take Digoxin as directed. Digoxin can be taken after a meal or on an empty stomach.
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Step 5
Follow all printed directions and instructions from your doctor exactly to avoid complications.
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Step 6
Tell you doctor if you have kidney disease. If you do, your doctor will need to adjust the dosage prescribed for you.
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Step 7
Watch for potential drug interactions. If you are taking Calan or Cordarone, tell you doctor to avoid the possibility of Digoxin toxicity. See Medicine.net for more information on Digoxin toxicity and dangerous drug interactions (see Resources below).
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Step 8
Pay close attention to what your body is telling you. Digoxin use can have side effects, and some can be potentially serious. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of these side effects. Digoxin use side effects include minor issues such as rash, nausea and vomiting. More serious side effects of Digoxin use can include a heart rate that is much too slow and toxicity.
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Step 9
Ask your doctor if generic Digoxin equivalents are right for you. Generics are typically less expensive than name brand drugs but only your doctor can tell if they are right for you.
