Lanoxin

Lanoxin is a brand name for the medication digoxin. Digoxin is a medication primarily used to treat certain heart conditions, including atrial fibrillation and heart failure. It belongs to a class of drugs called cardiac glycosides.

Digoxin works by increasing the force of the heart's contractions, which can improve blood circulation and reduce symptoms of heart failure such as shortness of breath and swelling. It also helps to slow down the heart rate in conditions like atrial fibrillation, where the heart beats too quickly and irregularly.

The medication is typically taken orally in tablet form, though it can also be administered intravenously. The dosage of digoxin is carefully individualized based on the patient's condition, kidney function, and other factors, as it has a narrow therapeutic window. This means the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose is small.

Because of its narrow therapeutic index, regular blood tests are often necessary to monitor digoxin levels and ensure safety and effectiveness. Signs of digoxin toxicity can include nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances (such as blurred vision or seeing yellow halos), and heart rhythm abnormalities. It is crucial to take digoxin exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional and to report any unusual symptoms immediately. Lanoxin is available by prescription only.