Cardiac glycosides: What They Do, Medicines
Cardiac glycosides are prescription medicines that make the heart muscle contract more strongly and slow the heart rate in some rhythm problems. They are used in heart failure and in atrial fibrillation. Digoxin is the main example. The safe range of the blood level is narrow, so doctors use blood tests and doses must be followed exactly.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Cardiac glycosides work?
Cardiac glycosides block a salt pump in heart muscle cells. This raises calcium inside the cells so the heart squeezes more firmly, and they also slow the electrical signal passing through the heart, which slows the heart rate.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Cardiac glycosides. They are listed A to Z.
- Digoxin: Digoxin is a prescription medicine used for heart failure and to control the heart rate in atrial fibrillation.
Common questions
Why does digoxin need blood tests?
The gap between a helpful amount and too much is small. Kidney function, age and other medicines change the level in the blood. Doctors may order blood tests to check the digoxin level, potassium and kidney function.
What are signs of too much digoxin?
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, blurred or yellow-tinged vision and an unusual heartbeat can be signs. The NHS says several of these together may mean too much. Contact a doctor promptly; for a fast or pounding heartbeat or breathlessness, get emergency help.
Can digoxin be stopped suddenly?
No. It is usually taken long term, and stopping suddenly can make the heart condition worse. Do not change or stop it without your doctor's advice.
Sources
- Digoxin tablets: prescribing information (Amneal). DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
- Side effects of digoxin. NHS (UK)
- How and when to take digoxin. NHS (UK)
- Digoxin. MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- ATC/DDD Index: C01AA05 Digoxin. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- National Formulary of India. Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission