Indications
Lanoxin is a medication derived from the leaves of the digitalis plant, primarily used to treat heart conditions such as heart failure and irregular heartbeat. Its active ingredient is digoxin, which helps to make the heartbeat stronger and more regularly. Lanoxin helps to control the ventricular response rate in adult patients with chronic atrial fibrillation.
It is available in tablet form and may be used alone or with other medications. Lanoxin is prescribed by a doctor and its use should be carefully monitored due to the potential for serious side effects. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider when taking Lanoxin.
Uses and Dosage
Lanoxin tablets are typically taken by mouth with or without food, usually once daily or as directed by a doctor. Follow the prescribed dosage and do not stop taking the medication without consulting a doctor, as some conditions may worsen if the drug is suddenly stopped. Take Lanoxin at least 2 hours before or after consuming high-fiber foods or taking certain medications, such as cholestyramine, colestipol, psyllium, antacids, kaolin-pectin, milk of magnesia, metoclopramide, sulfasalazine, or aminosalicylic acid.
Use Lanoxin regularly to get the maximum benefit from it and use it at the same time each day to help you remember. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor, as some conditions may worsen if the drug is suddenly stopped.
The prescribed dosage of Lanoxin may depend on factors such as an individual's medical condition, age, body weight, laboratory tests, and response to treatment.
- Adults and children over 10 years of age: The typical starting dose is 3.4 mg/kg to 5.1 mg/kg, taken by mouth once daily. For adults with normal kidney function, 125 mcg to 375 mcg once daily is a typical starting dose.
- Children less than 10 years of age: The dose depends on the child's weight. The typical starting dose is 3.2 mg/kg to 6.4 mg/kg, taken by mouth twice daily.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Lanoxin (Digoxin):
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Feeling weak
- Headache
- Nausea
- Rash
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Lanoxin (Digoxin):
- Bloody or black, tarry stools
- Blurred vision
- Breast swelling or tenderness
- Confusion, weakness
- Diarrhea
- Fast, slow, or uneven heart rate
- Hallucinations
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Unusual thoughts or behavior
- Vomiting
- Yellowed vision
Form and Strength
Lanoxin (Digoxin) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Lanoxin: Tablet
- 0.25%
- 0.125%
- 0.0625%
Digoxin: Tablet
- 0.25%
- 0.125%
Caution
- Lanoxin can cause toxicity and overdose if not taken as directed, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, confusion, and visual disturbances.
- Lanoxin can have serious interactions with certain medications, including diuretics, antacids, and some antibiotics.
- Lanoxin can interact with a number of other medications, including some diuretics, antacids, and antibiotics, increasing the risk of toxicity, so it is important to let your healthcare provider know about all the medications you are taking.
- Lanoxin is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- Lanoxin may cause serious cardiac arrhythmias, including bradycardia or heart block, so patients should be closely monitored for these effects.
- Lanoxin should be used with caution in patients with a history of ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, as it may increase the risk of these conditions.
- Lanoxin should be used with caution in patients with thyroid disorders, as it can interact with thyroid hormones and affect thyroid function.
- Patients taking Lanoxin should have regular blood tests to monitor their digoxin levels, electrolyte levels, and kidney function.
- Patients with electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium or magnesium levels, should have their electrolyte levels carefully monitored while taking Lanoxin.
- Patients with pre-existing heart conditions and kidney disease may be at an increased risk of experiencing adverse effects from Lanoxin.
- Patients with renal impairment may be at an increased risk of digoxin toxicity and may need to have their Lanoxin dosage adjusted accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is digoxin (Lanoxin) safe for older adults?
Older people can use digoxin (Lanoxin), but they must be more careful with it because they tend to have less muscle mass and lower kidney function, which makes them more likely to have higher levels of digoxin (Lanoxin) in the body.
Can Lanoxin interact with other medications?
Yes, Lanoxin can interact with several medications, including diuretics, antacids, and antibiotics. Let your healthcare provider know about all the medications you are taking before starting Lanoxin.
Can Lanoxin be taken during pregnancy?
Lanoxin is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it may have harmful effects on the developing fetus. Pregnant women should speak to their healthcare provider before taking Lanoxin.
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