Digitoxin
Digitoxin is a cardiac glycoside derived from Digitalis species, most notably foxglove. It has historically been used to treat congestive heart failure and to control ventricular rate in atrial fibrillation, though its use has declined with the availability of other therapies. It may still be encountered in some regimens for symptom management in select patients.
Mechanism of action: Digitoxin inhibits the Na+/K+-ATPase pump on cardiac myocytes, increasing intracellular sodium and reducing
Pharmacokinetics: Digitoxin is absorbed from the gut and binds extensively to serum albumin. It has a long
Clinical use and monitoring: Because of a narrow therapeutic window, dosing is individualized based on body
Toxicity and management: Digitalis toxicity presents with gastrointestinal symptoms, confusion, visual disturbances, and a range of