How to Administer Digoxin

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By E. Burgess
eHow Contributing Writer

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Digoxin is a prescription medication used to treat various heart conditions, including atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter and heart failure. It is marketed under the brand names Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps and Digitek. The drug works by making the heart beat stronger and more regularly. It is important to use digoxin only as prescribed. Overdosing or suffering digoxin toxicity can lead to renal (kidney) problems.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Digoxin
physician's assistance

How to Administer Digoxin

Step 1

Before this drug can be administered, talk with your doctor about prior medical history and give a complete listing of all drugs you are currently taking and any untreated symptoms you have been experiencing.
Step 2

Your physician will prescribe digoxin by either pill, injection or IV.
Step 3

The dosages of digoxin will be factored by the severity of the condition and the age and weight of the patient. Your doctor will decide whether a pill or an injection works best for you (with the serum ranging from 0.8 to 2.0 mL).

Tips & Warnings

Take your medication regularly even if you feel well. Don't stop taking digoxin suddenly; always talk to your doctor about switching medications. Take digoxin at the same time every day. Take digoxin with a full glass of water. Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated while taking digoxin, as an overdose can occur more easily if you are dehydrated.
Do not take too high a dose of digoxin. It is especially important that your digoxin levels be monitored while using it. Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to digoxin, or if you have a heart rhythm disorder related to ventricular fibrillation. Tell your doctor if you have "AV BLOCK" or any other heart conditions. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease or thyroid problems, as well as an electrolyte imbalance. Notify your doctor if you are having any allergic reactions, are pregnant or intend to become pregnant.