Digitalis poisoning

Digitalis poisoning, also called digoxin toxicity or digitalis toxicity, happens when someone has too much of a heart medicine called digitalis (or digoxin) in their body. Digitalis medicines come from the foxglove plant and have been used for hundreds of years to treat heart problems like heart failure and certain irregular heartbeats. When the level of this drug gets too high in the blood, it can cause serious and even life-threatening problems throughout the body. The heart is most affected by digitalis poisoning. The drug works by changing the electrical signals in the heart, and too much of it can cause the heart to beat too slowly, too fast, or in a dangerously irregular way. The digestive system is also commonly affected, causing nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Some people experience strange visual changes, such as seeing yellow or green halos around lights. The nervous system can also be involved, leading to confusion, dizziness, and weakness. Digitalis poisoning can happen accidentally from taking too much medication, from drug interactions, or because the kidneys are not clearing the drug fast enough. It can also happen from intentional overdose. Treatment focuses on stopping the drug, managing symptoms, correcting electrolyte imbalances (especially low potassium), and in severe cases, using a specific antidote called digoxin-specific antibody fragments (Digibind or DigiFab) that quickly reverses the poisoning. With prompt treatment, most people recover fully.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.What caused my digitalis poisoning, and how can we prevent it from happening again?,Do I still need to take digoxin, or is there a safer alternative for my heart condition?,How often should my digoxin blood levels and kidney function be checked?,Are there any medications, supplements, or foods I should avoid while taking digoxin?,What early warning signs should prompt me to call you or go to the emergency room?,Should my potassium levels be monitored regularly, and do I need to change my diet?,Is my current dose of digoxin still appropriate given my age and kidney function?

Common questions about Digitalis poisoning