How to Recognize Digoxin Side Effects

The generic drug digoxin is mainly prescribed for heart problems like irregular rhythms (arrhythmias) and heart failure. It comes in the form of capsules, liquid, and tablets, and common brand names for it are Lanoxin Elixir Pediatric, Lanoxicaps, Lanoxin, and Digitek. Recognizing the side effects of digoxin and understanding what to do when they occur is simple with proper background information.

Instructions

1. Consult a doctor if your breasts become larger after taking digoxin and the symptom doesn't go away or becomes uncomfortable. This is a common side effect that both men and women experience.

2. Note that moderate side effects of digoxin require medical intervention if they grow worse or persevere for a period of time. Such symptoms include dizziness, drowsiness, and lightheadedness.

3. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms like abnormal eyesight or heartbeat, breathing difficulty, confusion, diarrhea, fatigue, hives, itching, lack of appetite, nausea, rash, swollen body parts like the hands or face, unusual bleeding or bruising, upset stomach, vomiting, and weight gain. All of these side effects are considered severe and shouldn't be ignored.

4. Avoid eating too much bran fiber while taking digoxin. People who eat a lot of food with large amounts of bran fiber may absorb less of the drug into the bloodstream through the stomach, which may reduce its effectiveness.

5. See a doctor first for advice if medication for allergies, colds, or coughs is required while taking digoxin. Some drugs used to treat those conditions may react adversely with digoxin and increase both the risk and the severity of side effects.

Resources

• Digoxin Oral