Digoxin (Lanoxin) Tips from Pharmacists

• Your doctor may start you on a lower initial dose of digoxin and adjust the dose based on your response and digoxin levels. Follow your doctor’s dosing instructions carefully and take the medicine as prescribed.

• Use the dropper that came with the medicine to measure liquid medicine. Do not use a regular kitchen spoon as this can result in wrong dosing. Too high doses can result in digoxin toxicity.

• Keep all your medical and laboratory appointments during digoxin administration. Your doctor may want to order serum drug levels and other blood tests.

• Digoxin can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid driving or doing other hazardous activities until you know how this medicine affects you.

• Keep a log of your blood pressure and heart rate readings at home. Bring the log to your doctor’s appointments.

• Call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical care if you develop nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, weakness, or confusion. These can be signs of digoxin toxicity.

• Stay well hydrated while on digoxin therapy. Dehydration can affect kidney function and lead to high levels of the drug in your body.