Digoxin (Lanoxin) Flashcards
1
Q
Classification:
A
- Cardiac glycoside
2
Q
Action:
A
- Inhibits sodium-potassium-adenosine triphosphatase membrane pump, resulting in increase in calcium inside the heart muscle cell, which causes an increase in the force of the heart’s contraction
3
Q
Indications:
A
- CHF
- To control the ventricular rate in chronic AF and atrial flutter
- Narrow complex paroxysmal SVT
4
Q
Adverse Effects:
A
- Headache
- Weakness
- GI disturbances
- Arrhythmias
- Nausea/vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Vision disturbance
5
Q
Contraindications:
A
- Digitalis allergy
- VT and VF
- Heart block
- Sick sinus syndrome
- Tachycardia w/out heart failure
- Pulse lower than 50-60 beats/min
- MI
- Ischemic heart disease
- Pts w/ preexcitation AF or atrial flutter
6
Q
Dosage:
A
- Dosage is individualized
7
Q
Special Considerations:
A
- Low levels of serum potassium can lead to digoxin toxicity and bradycardia
- Conditions such as administration of steroids or diuretics or vomiting and diarrhea can produce low levels of potassium and subsequent digoxin toxicity