Drug Basics
Digoxin Drug class
Cardiac glycoside
Main heart failure benefit
improves cardiac output
What is the therapeutic digoxin level?
0.5-2 NG/ml
nausea
Do we educate patients to take pulse before dose?
yes
Trade Name
Lanoxin
used in which dysrhythmia
atrial fib
What effects does it have on potassium?
lowers it
What visual changes occur with toxicity?
Is taking with food required?
if GI upset occurs
What is the primary effect of digoxin?
Digoxin affects which node in the conduction system
AV node
What electrolyte imbalance occurs with toxicity?
hypokalemia
What is the antidote?
Digoxin immune fab
What do they do if they missed a dose?
skip if close to next dose
Routes of Administration
PO/IV
True or False --> it is not a first line choice for hypertension
True
What renal lab needs to be monitored?
creatinine
What heart rate requires us to hold the medication?
<60
What should be reported immediately to the MD?
vision changes
Therapeutic effects
slower heart rate
True or False --> Digoxin is often combined with diuretics
True
What EKG changes may be seen?
bradycardia
What group is at risk with digoxin use?
Should patients avoid OTC meds without approval?
yes