Digitek, the brand name for the medication digoxin, treats mild to moderate heart failure. The medicine may be used in combination with other drugs or alone to treat conditions such as congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation. According to Drugs.com, calculating the dosage of the medication depends on the patient's body weight and medical condition. The medication works to increase the contractions of the heart and slows the heart rate down. Digitek is available only with a prescription. Along with the desired effects, this medication may cause unwanted side effects.
Cardiovascular
Digitek may cause adverse reactions on the heart. The medication may cause an arrhythmia. According to Drugs.com, this is especially true for babies and children using the medicine. One of the arrhythmias that may occur is ventricular tachycardia, which can be life-threatening. The heart may also begin to beat erratically and cause palpitations or chest pain.
Central Nervous System
Side effects that may affect the central nervous system include a headache, generalized weakness and drowsiness. Individuals may feel depressed, confused or disoriented while taking the medication.
Eyes
According to Drugs.com, the medication Digitek may cause blurred vision or a halo effect around lights.
Gastrointestinal
Digitek may cause gastrointestinal distress for some people using the medication. Some symptoms of this distress include nausea, vomiting, a loss of appetite and diarrhea. Rarely the medicine may cause abdominal pain, black and tarry stools and bloody vomit. Unusual bleeding or bruising are signs of a possible liver problem.
Overdose
Signs of an overdose of Digitek may be difficult to distinguish from regular side effects. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of an overdose include gastrointestinal distress and visual changes. Other symptoms include an irregular or slow heart rate, heart palpitations and fainting. Because these are also common side effects of this medication, it is important to report all side effects to the physician. The dose may need to be lowered or the medication may need to be changed to avoid the unwanted side effects.
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