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Lanoxin

Lanoxin (generic name: digoxin; sometimes referred to as a digitalis glycoside; historic brand names include Digitek and Lanoxicaps) remains an important therapy for specific heart rhythm disorders and certain patients with chronic heart failure. It is derived from the leaves of the Digitalis plant, a relative of foxglove, and has been used in medicine for more than two centuries. Modern formulations are standardized, carefully dosed, and monitored to maximize benefits and minimize risks.

In clinical practice, Lanoxin is used most often to help control heart rate in atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter and to improve symptoms in select people with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. By strengthening the force of each heartbeat (positive inotropy) and slowing electrical conduction through the atrioventricular node (negative chronotropy and dromotropy), digoxin can reduce breathlessness, fatigue, and palpitations, and in some patients reduce heart failure hospitalizations. Because digoxin has a narrow therapeutic window, it requires individualized dosing, careful attention to kidney function and electrolytes, and awareness of drug–drug interactions.

Lanoxin can be used across the lifespan under medical supervision, including in premature and full-term infants, children, adults, and older adults. Older patients and those with impaired kidney function are more susceptible to side effects and toxicity and typically require lower doses and closer monitoring. In pregnancy, digoxin has been used when clinically indicated (for example, to manage maternal atrial fibrillation or certain fetal tachyarrhythmias), and small amounts pass into breast milk but are generally not expected to harm nursing infants. Decisions about use in pregnancy and breastfeeding are individualized and should be guided by a clinician familiar with the patient’s condition.

How Lanoxin (Digoxin) Works

Digoxin belongs to a class of medicines known as digitalis glycosides. Its primary mechanism is inhibition of the sodium–potassium ATPase pump in cardiac myocytes. This increases intracellular sodium, which in turn reduces the activity of the sodium–calcium exchanger, leading to higher intracellular calcium during systole. The result is a stronger contraction of the heart muscle. In addition, digoxin enhances vagal (parasympathetic) tone and slows conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node, which is particularly helpful for controlling ventricular rate in atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter.

Key therapeutic effects include:

  • Positive inotropic effect: increases the force of cardiac contraction, supporting cardiac output in some patients with heart failure.
  • Negative chronotropic and dromotropic effects: reduces heart rate and slows AV nodal conduction, aiding rate control in supraventricular tachyarrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation.
  • Neurohormonal effects: may modestly modulate sympathetic and renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system activity, contributing to symptom improvement in heart failure.

Who May Benefit From Lanoxin

Clinicians consider Lanoxin for:

  • Atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter: to control ventricular rate at rest, especially in sedentary patients or when beta-blockers or non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers are not tolerated or insufficient on their own.
  • Chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: to improve symptoms and exercise tolerance and to reduce the risk of hospitalization in select patients already receiving guideline-directed medical therapy (e.g., ACE inhibitors/ARBs/ARNI, beta-blockers, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, SGLT2 inhibitors).
  • Certain pediatric arrhythmias: under specialist care, digoxin may be used for supraventricular tachycardia and other rhythm issues.

Digoxin does not typically improve survival in heart failure but can improve quality of life and reduce hospitalizations in appropriately selected patients.

Who Should Not Use Lanoxin

Lanoxin is not suitable for everyone. It should not be used in patients with:

  • Known hypersensitivity to digoxin or other digitalis glycosides.
  • Ventricular fibrillation (contraindicated).

Digoxin may be inappropriate or require extreme caution in patients with:

  • Advanced AV block or sick sinus syndrome without a pacemaker.
  • Wolff–Parkinson–White (WPW) syndrome with atrial fibrillation (risk of accelerating conduction through the accessory pathway).
  • Marked electrolyte abnormalities (hypokalemia, hypercalcemia, hypomagnesemia), which raise the risk of toxicity.
  • Significant renal impairment, as digoxin is renally cleared.
  • Active myocarditis or recent myocardial infarction, where arrhythmia risk may be higher.

Recommendations

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Take Lanoxin exactly as directed. Do not change your dose or stop taking Lanoxin unless your prescriber tells you to do so.

  • Consistency: Lanoxin is usually taken once daily. Try to take it at the same time each day.
  • With or without food: You may take Lanoxin with water, with or without food. Very high-fiber meals or certain supplements can reduce absorption; if you regularly eat bran or take fiber supplements, discuss timing with your clinician.
  • Swallowing: Lanoxin tablets should be swallowed with a drink of water. An oral solution and an injectable formulation exist; dosing devices and routes are selected by clinicians.
  • Missed dose: If you miss a dose of Lanoxin, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
  • Do not stop abruptly: Sudden discontinuation may worsen heart failure or allow heart rates to accelerate in atrial fibrillation. Discuss any changes with your clinician.

Storage tips: Keep Lanoxin tablets in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture. Store out of reach of children and pets.

Precautions

Before taking Lanoxin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you:

  • Are allergic to digoxin, digitoxin, or any component of the formulation.
  • Have kidney disease, thyroid disorders, electrolyte disturbances (low potassium or magnesium, high calcium), or a history of heart block or arrhythmias.
  • Take diuretics, antiarrhythmics, macrolide antibiotics, azole antifungals, calcium channel blockers, or other drugs that might interact with digoxin.
  • Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Because elderly individuals and people with reduced kidney function are more prone to digoxin side effects, they often require lower maintenance doses and more frequent monitoring.

Common Dosage Forms and General Dosing Principles

Lanoxin is available as oral tablets and oral solution; an intravenous formulation is used in hospital settings. Common U.S. tablet strengths include 0.125 mg (125 micrograms) and 0.25 mg (250 micrograms). The oral solution is typically 0.05 mg/mL, and an injectable form is commonly 0.25 mg/mL. Formulations may vary by country and manufacturer.

Dosing is individualized. Clinicians consider age, body size, kidney function (creatinine clearance), comorbidities, concomitant medications, and treatment goals (e.g., heart failure symptom relief vs. atrial fibrillation rate control). Many adults receive a maintenance dose in the range of 0.125–0.25 mg once daily, but some require less (for example, 0.0625–0.125 mg daily) to avoid elevated serum digoxin concentrations. Loading doses may be used in certain acute situations under medical supervision, particularly in hospital or with careful outpatient monitoring. Pediatric dosing is weight-based and requires specialist oversight.

Therapeutic serum digoxin concentrations are typically targeted at approximately 0.5–0.9 ng/mL in heart failure, while slightly higher levels may be acceptable for rate control in atrial fibrillation in some circumstances. Toxicity can occur at levels above 2.0 ng/mL, but side effects and arrhythmias may occur at lower concentrations, especially in the presence of electrolyte abnormalities or interacting medications. Blood levels are generally measured as a trough at least 6–8 hours after a dose (often just before the next dose) for accurate interpretation.

Drug and Food Interactions

Digoxin is a substrate of P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Medications that inhibit P-gp can raise digoxin levels and increase toxicity risk; P-gp inducers can have the opposite effect.

Potential interactions to discuss with your clinician include:

  • Antiarrhythmics: amiodarone, dronedarone, quinidine, propafenone, and flecainide can elevate digoxin levels or enhance effects.
  • Calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers: verapamil and diltiazem may increase levels and, together with digoxin, can slow heart rate excessively; beta-blockers have additive rate-slowing effects.
  • Macrolide antibiotics and antifungals: clarithromycin, erythromycin, itraconazole, and ketoconazole can increase digoxin levels.
  • HIV protease inhibitors and certain antivirals: ritonavir and others may increase levels.
  • Immunosuppressants: cyclosporine can raise digoxin exposure.
  • Diuretics: loop and thiazide diuretics can cause hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia, which potentiate digoxin toxicity.
  • Other agents: spironolactone, certain tetracyclines, and some herbal products (e.g., St. John’s wort, which may reduce levels; licorice, which can lower potassium) can interact.

Absorption can be reduced by substances that bind digoxin in the gut, such as cholestyramine, colestipol, certain antacids, and high-fiber bran. Separating administration times by a few hours can sometimes mitigate this effect; your clinician or pharmacist can provide specific guidance.

Side Effects and Signs of Toxicity

When used at appropriate doses and with monitoring, many people tolerate digoxin well. Nonetheless, side effects can occur, and recognizing early signs of toxicity is crucial.

Common side effects may include:

  • Gastrointestinal symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite.
  • Neurologic symptoms: fatigue, dizziness, headache, confusion, or sleep disturbances, particularly in older adults.
  • Visual changes: blurred vision, color disturbances (e.g., yellow-green tint), or halos around lights (xanthopsia).
  • Cardiac effects: slow heart rate (bradycardia) or irregular rhythms.

Signs of serious toxicity warranting urgent medical evaluation include:

  • Marked bradycardia, fainting, or near-fainting.
  • Palpitations, chest pain, or new irregular heartbeats.
  • Persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain.
  • Confusion, severe dizziness, or visual disturbances.

Severe digoxin toxicity can cause life-threatening arrhythmias. In emergencies, digoxin-specific antibody fragments (digoxin immune Fab) can reverse toxicity. Prompt medical attention is essential if overdose is suspected.

Monitoring and Safety Checks

Because of the narrow therapeutic index, routine safety monitoring improves outcomes. Your care team may recommend:

  • Serum digoxin concentration: typically checked after initiation or dose changes, after starting or stopping interacting medications, and periodically during maintenance.
  • Kidney function: creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) guide dosing, as digoxin is predominantly renally excreted.
  • Electrolytes: potassium, magnesium, and calcium should be kept within normal ranges; hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia increase the risk of arrhythmias.
  • Heart rhythm and rate: electrocardiograms (ECGs) and pulse checks help ensure safe rate control and detect conduction issues.

Many patients are advised to learn how to check their pulse and recognize symptoms of bradycardia or palpitations. Any new medications, supplements, or major dietary changes should be reviewed with a pharmacist or prescriber for potential interactions.

Special Populations

  • Elderly adults: increased sensitivity to digoxin and higher prevalence of renal impairment necessitate lower starting doses and cautious titration.
  • Renal impairment: dose adjustments are often required; more frequent monitoring of serum levels and kidney function is recommended.
  • Thyroid disorders: hypothyroidism can increase sensitivity to digoxin; hyperthyroidism may reduce response. Dose needs can shift with changes in thyroid status.
  • Pregnancy: Digoxin crosses the placenta and is used when benefits outweigh risks for the mother or fetus under specialist guidance. Dosing may need adjustment due to physiological changes of pregnancy.
  • Breastfeeding: Small amounts enter breast milk; adverse effects in nursing infants are uncommon but monitoring is prudent, especially in premature infants.
  • Pediatrics: Dosing is weight-based and must be individualized by a pediatric cardiologist or pediatrician experienced with arrhythmia management.

Practical Tips for Day-to-Day Use

  • Set reminders: A daily alarm or pill organizer can help maintain consistent dosing.
  • Keep a medication list: Include all prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. Share it at every healthcare visit.
  • Watch fluids and electrolytes: If you take diuretics, ask about potassium and magnesium monitoring or supplementation.
  • Sick-day plan: Vomiting, diarrhea, or poor oral intake can alter digoxin levels and electrolytes; contact your clinician if you’re unwell for advice on monitoring.
  • Traveling: Carry medicines in original labeled containers, bring a current prescription list, and be aware of time zones to keep dosing consistent.

Ingredients

Active ingredient: digoxin. Inactive components vary by manufacturer and formulation; check the product label or patient information leaflet for a full list of excipients if you have allergies or sensitivities.

Comparisons and Alternatives

For atrial fibrillation rate control, beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol) and non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil) are commonly used alternatives or complements to digoxin. For heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, foundational therapies include ACE inhibitors or ARNI, beta-blockers, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and SGLT2 inhibitors; ivabradine may be considered in select patients. The choice to add or substitute digoxin depends on symptoms, heart rate targets, comorbidities, blood pressure, and tolerability.

Evidence Snapshot

Historical trials demonstrated that digoxin improves symptoms and exercise capacity in heart failure and reduces hospitalizations, particularly when added to standard therapy. In atrial fibrillation, digoxin can help control the resting ventricular rate, though effectiveness during exertion may be limited because its rate-slowing effect relies on vagal tone. Observational studies have reported mixed signals about digoxin and mortality in atrial fibrillation, likely influenced by confounding and dosing/monitoring factors; careful patient selection and vigilant monitoring are key.

What to Discuss With Your Clinician

  • Your treatment goals: symptom relief, exercise tolerance, rate control targets.
  • All current medications and supplements: to screen for interactions.
  • Kidney function and electrolyte history: these influence dosing and safety.
  • Any history of arrhythmias, heart block, or syncope.
  • Plans for pregnancy or current breastfeeding.
  • Ability to attend monitoring visits and obtain lab tests as needed.

Storage, Handling, and Disposal

  • Store at room temperature in a dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep in the original container with the label intact.
  • Dispose of unused or expired tablets according to local pharmacy take-back programs; do not flush unless instructed.

Lanoxin U.S. Sale and Prescription Policy

In the United States, digoxin (Lanoxin) is a prescription-only medication. Federal and state laws require a valid prescription from a licensed clinician before a pharmacy may dispense it. Any pathway to obtain Lanoxin should include an appropriate clinical evaluation, documentation in your medical record, and dispensing by a licensed pharmacy.

Some healthcare organizations provide compliant telehealth or in-person evaluation and prescribing services so that patients who do not have a pre-existing paper prescription can still be assessed and, when clinically appropriate, receive a legitimate prescription and pharmacy fulfillment. HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital at Martin offers a legal and structured solution for acquiring Lanoxin without a formal paper prescription on hand by connecting patients with licensed clinicians for evaluation and, if indicated, arranging dispensing through authorized pharmacy partners. Patients should expect a proper medical review, verification of medical history, and adherence to all applicable regulations. Always use licensed healthcare professionals and pharmacies, and avoid any service that proposes to supply prescription medicines without clinician involvement.

Lanoxin FAQ

What is Lanoxin (digoxin) and what is it used for?

Lanoxin is the brand name for digoxin, a cardiac glycoside used to treat heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and to control heart rate in certain arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. It improves symptoms and exercise tolerance in heart failure and slows conduction through the AV node to control a fast heartbeat in AFib.

How does Lanoxin work in the heart?

Lanoxin inhibits the sodium-potassium ATPase pump in heart cells, increasing intracellular calcium and strengthening cardiac contractions (positive inotropy). It also increases vagal tone, which slows AV nodal conduction and helps control heart rate.

Who is a good candidate for Lanoxin?

Lanoxin is considered in symptomatic heart failure patients, especially those who remain symptomatic despite guideline-directed therapy, and in patients with atrial fibrillation who need additional rate control, particularly when beta-blockers or non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers are insufficient or contraindicated.

Who should not take Lanoxin?

Avoid Lanoxin in patients with ventricular fibrillation, and use extreme caution or avoid in advanced AV block without a pacemaker, sick sinus syndrome without pacing, known digoxin hypersensitivity, and acute myocarditis. Dose adjustments and close monitoring are needed in severe renal impairment and significant electrolyte disturbances.

How is Lanoxin typically dosed?

Most adults take 0.125–0.25 mg once daily, tailored to age, kidney function, body size, and clinical response. Pediatric dosing is weight-based. Your prescriber may use a loading dose in the hospital for rapid effect. Never change your dose without medical guidance.

How soon does Lanoxin start working?

Heart rate control can begin within hours, especially after IV dosing. For heart failure symptom improvement, benefits may be noticeable within days to weeks. Steady-state blood levels are usually reached in 5–7 days with consistent dosing and stable kidney function.

What are common side effects of Lanoxin?

Nausea, loss of appetite, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and mild dizziness are common. Visual disturbances such as blurred vision or a yellow-green tint can occur, especially with higher levels.

What are signs of Lanoxin toxicity that need urgent attention?

Severe nausea and vomiting, confusion, visual halos or marked color changes, palpitations, very slow or irregular pulse, fainting, and new arrhythmias may signal toxicity. Seek urgent care if these occur, particularly if you have kidney issues or recent medication changes.

Which drugs and supplements interact with Lanoxin?

Amiodarone, verapamil, diltiazem, macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin), azole antifungals, quinidine, propafenone, and some diuretics can raise digoxin levels or its effects. Rifampin and St. John’s wort can lower levels. Antacids, kaolin-pectin, cholestyramine, and high-fiber supplements can reduce absorption; separate dosing by several hours.

Do I need blood tests while taking Lanoxin?

Yes. Clinicians often monitor serum digoxin concentration (typically targeted around 0.5–0.9 ng/mL for heart failure), kidney function (creatinine/eGFR), electrolytes (potassium, magnesium, calcium), and sometimes ECGs. Levels are checked at least 6–8 hours after a dose, preferably just before the next dose.

Can Lanoxin cure heart failure or atrial fibrillation?

Lanoxin does not cure these conditions. It helps control symptoms and heart rate and can reduce hospitalizations in heart failure. Your overall treatment plan may still require other medications, procedures, or lifestyle changes.

How should I take Lanoxin with food or other products?

You can take Lanoxin with or without food, but be consistent. High-fiber meals, fiber supplements, and certain antacids can lower absorption; take Lanoxin at least 2 hours before or after them. Avoid sudden changes in diet that could alter absorption.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Take it when you remember unless it’s close to your next dose. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up. If you miss more than one dose, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

How is Lanoxin stored safely?

Store at room temperature away from moisture and light, in its original container, and out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date.

What happens in a Lanoxin overdose?

Overdose can be life-threatening, causing severe nausea, vomiting, confusion, dangerous arrhythmias, and visual changes. Call emergency services or poison control immediately; do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Does Lanoxin improve survival in heart failure?

Lanoxin consistently reduces hospitalizations for heart failure but has not shown a clear mortality benefit. It is typically used as an add-on to standard mortality-reducing therapies such as ACE inhibitors/ARNI, beta-blockers, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and SGLT2 inhibitors.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Lanoxin?

Moderate alcohol generally does not directly interact with Lanoxin, but alcohol can dehydrate you, worsen arrhythmias, and affect electrolytes, raising toxicity risk. If you drink, limit intake and avoid binge drinking; seek advice if you have heart failure, as alcohol can exacerbate it.

Is Lanoxin safe during pregnancy?

Lanoxin has been used during pregnancy when benefits outweigh risks, especially for maternal arrhythmias and certain fetal arrhythmias. It crosses the placenta but is not linked to major birth defects. Dosing may need adjustment due to physiologic changes; close monitoring is recommended.

Can I take Lanoxin while breastfeeding?

Small amounts enter breast milk, but infant exposure is generally low and considered compatible with breastfeeding. Monitor the infant for poor feeding or unusual sleepiness, and discuss with your pediatrician and cardiologist.

What should I tell my surgeon or anesthesiologist if I’m on Lanoxin?

Inform them you take Lanoxin, your dose, and any recent level checks. They will monitor your heart rate and rhythm closely and manage electrolytes during and after surgery. Do not stop Lanoxin unless your care team instructs you.

How does kidney disease affect Lanoxin use?

Lanoxin is primarily cleared by the kidneys, so impaired kidney function increases the risk of accumulation and toxicity. Doses are usually reduced, and levels, ECG, and electrolytes are monitored more frequently.

What if I have thyroid disease and take Lanoxin?

Hypothyroidism can increase sensitivity to Lanoxin; hyperthyroidism can reduce it. Dose adjustments are often needed as thyroid status changes. Keep your clinicians updated on thyroid test results and medications.

Does dehydration or electrolyte imbalance change Lanoxin safety?

Yes. Low potassium or magnesium and high calcium significantly raise the risk of digoxin-induced arrhythmias. Maintain hydration, avoid abrupt diuretic changes without guidance, and have electrolytes checked if you feel unwell.

Can children use Lanoxin?

Lanoxin is used in pediatrics for certain congenital and acquired heart conditions, with weight-based dosing and careful monitoring. Never give a child Lanoxin without pediatric cardiology guidance.

How does Lanoxin differ from digitoxin?

Both are cardiac glycosides, but Lanoxin (digoxin) is primarily renally cleared with a half-life of ~36–48 hours (longer in kidney disease), while digitoxin is hepatically metabolized with a much longer half-life (~5–7 days). Digitoxin’s long half-life makes dose adjustments slower and toxicity more prolonged; digoxin is more commonly used worldwide.

Lanoxin vs metildigoxin (acetyldigoxin): what’s the difference?

Metildigoxin is an acetylated digoxin derivative with slightly higher and more consistent oral bioavailability and more hepatic metabolism than digoxin. Clinical effects are similar; choice may depend on regional availability and patient-specific pharmacokinetics.

Lanoxin vs deslanoside: which is preferred?

Deslanoside (cedilanid) is another cardiac glycoside historically used, often intravenously for rapid digitalization. It’s much less common today. Lanoxin remains the standard oral agent for chronic use due to availability, familiarity, and robust dosing guidance.

Lanoxin vs ouabain: how do they compare?

Ouabain has very poor oral bioavailability and a very rapid onset when given IV, historically used in acute settings. It is not commonly used in modern practice. Lanoxin is suitable for chronic management with established oral dosing and monitoring.

Is Lanoxin different from generic digoxin?

The active ingredient is the same, but bioavailability can vary modestly between manufacturers and formulations. Switching brands can change blood levels; clinicians may recheck a level and ECG after a switch, especially in high-risk patients.

Lanoxin tablets vs Lanoxin oral solution: which absorbs better?

The oral solution generally has higher and more consistent bioavailability than tablets. This can lead to higher serum levels at the same nominal dose, so dose adjustments may be needed when switching forms.

Lanoxin oral vs IV digoxin: when is each used?

IV digoxin is used when rapid rate control is needed or when oral intake isn’t possible. Oral Lanoxin is used for chronic therapy. IV administration requires close ECG and hemodynamic monitoring.

Lanoxin vs Lanoxicaps: are they interchangeable?

Lanoxicaps (soft-gel digoxin capsules) historically offered more consistent bioavailability than some tablets. If switching between forms, clinicians may adjust the dose and recheck levels to ensure equivalence.

Lanoxin vs digitoxin in chronic kidney disease: which is safer?

Digitoxin, being hepatically cleared, may be considered in severe CKD to avoid accumulation; however, it has a longer half-life and can be harder to titrate. Many clinicians still use reduced-dose Lanoxin with careful monitoring. Choice depends on expertise, availability, and patient factors.

Lanoxin vs digitoxin: which is better for atrial fibrillation rate control?

Both slow AV nodal conduction, but most evidence and dosing guidance favor Lanoxin. Beta-blockers and certain calcium channel blockers remain first-line for rate control; cardiac glycosides are adjuncts, particularly in sedentary patients or those with heart failure.

Lanoxin vs acetyldigoxin: dosing considerations

Acetyldigoxin may achieve target levels with slightly lower milligram doses due to bioavailability differences. Therapeutic drug monitoring and clinical response should guide dosing when switching between these agents.

Lanoxin vs deslanoside in acute digitalization

Deslanoside and IV digoxin both can be used for rapid digitalization, but IV digoxin is more widely available with standardized protocols. Deslanoside use is now rare in many regions.

Lanoxin vs herbal digitalis products

Herbal or “natural” digitalis preparations are unsafe, unregulated, and can cause unpredictable and severe toxicity. Only prescription-grade digoxin products like Lanoxin should be used, with medical supervision.