Digoxin is most frequently prescribed to treat cardiac conditions such as congestive heart failure, arrhythmias (unusual heart patterns or rhythms), angina (chest pain) and post-heart attack symptoms. This drug aids in improving cardiovascular blood flow and stabilizing heart rate. Toxicity refers to the condition where the amount of digoxin in the blood or the serum digoxin level is higher than the range of values identified as being therapeutic and safe. Digoxin toxicity is a serious condition that needs immediate medical care.
Gastric Effects
Toxic levels of digoxin in the body may produce several gastrointestinal signs that include diarrhea as well as nausea and vomiting. A loss of appetite may also occur. Any changes while on digoxin should be reported to a physician.
Cardiac Effects
Digoxin toxicity commonly produces several cardiopulmonary symptoms. These may include an irregular pulse or a decreased heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute, fatigue and shortness of breath. On the other hand, a fast or pounding heart beat may be experienced, as well as generalized weakness. Again, it is important to let a cardiologist know about any changes while taking digoxin.
Visual Effects
Specific visual disturbances usually occur when digoxin toxicity is present. Blind or bright spots in vision, blurred or double vision, color perception distortions and seeing halos around objects are common complaints in individuals diagnosed with toxic levels of digoxin.
Other Effects
Because digoxin toxicity is a very serious condition, it is important to be aware of its less common or rare effects. These may include a skin rash, headaches, being confused or disoriented, as well as drowsiness or decreased consciousness. Additionally, a noticeable decrease in urine output may occur with increasing peripheral edema, along with an unexplained gain in weight. Blood-related effects have also been associated with digoxin toxicity, and include an increase in bruising, tarry stools, hematuria (blood in urine) and hematemesis (blood in vomit). A patient taking digoxin is monitored at certain intervals by a physician; however, the patient must be compliant with medication directions, follow-up or monitoring office visits, and alert the doctor as to any noticeable changes.
