Drug Uses
Lanoxin is a digitalis glycoside that is used in the treatment of congestive heart failure and slowing the heart rate in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation.
How it is taken
The best way to use Lanoxin is as recommended by your doctor.
Missed Dosage
If you miss a dose of Lanoxin then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.
Overdose
Changes in vision, confusion, decreased consciousness, diarrhea, difficulty breathing when lying down, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, loss of appetite, nausea, and pounding in chest, vomiting and weakness are some of the typical symptoms of a Lanoxin overdose.
Warnings/Precautions
Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, if you have severe heart failure, inflammation of the heart, coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart block, extra heart beats (PVCs), certain abnormal heart rhythms, or fainting due to a heart problem, if you have severe kidney, liver or lung, or thyroid problems, have low blood levels of calcium, magnesium, or potassium, or high blood levels of potassium or calcium.
You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you have Beriberi heart disease.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Lanoxin and contact your doctor immediately to discuss about the possible risj to the baby.
Lanoxin is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.
Certain drugs can interact with Lanoxin and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.
should not be used in children as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.
Ensure that you inform your doctor and your dentist about before receiving any form of medical treatment or dental treatment or emergency surgery.
Periodic lab tests including including electrocardiogram (ECG), electrolytes, and blood digoxin levels may be recommended to monitor your health while taking the drug. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests.
It has been noted that elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.
Possible Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of are Diarrhea, fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and weakness. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.
Other severe side effects include severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, and swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), heart disturbances.
You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.
