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What are the Most Common Digoxin Side Effects?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

Digoxin is a prescription medication that is used to treat certain heart conditions, such as heart failure or irregular heartbeat. This medication works by slowing down the heart and helping to regulate the heartbeat. Some common digoxin side effects may include nausea, drowsiness, or confusion. Some over-the-counter or prescription medications may interfere with the way this medication works, so it is important to notify the prescribing physician of any other medications or treatment methods that are being used.

It is important to take digoxin exactly as prescribed by a physician. If this medication is stopped suddenly, the heart condition for which this drug was prescribed may become worse. If there are bothersome side effects or complications, a doctor should be consulted.

A doctor should be consulted for persistent or severe side effects from taking digoxin.
A doctor should be consulted for persistent or severe side effects from taking digoxin.

Digestive disturbances are among the most commonly reported digoxin side effects. Some of these digestive disturbances may include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Stomach pain, abdominal cramps, or loss of appetite may also be experienced. These side effects are generally mild and do not present enough discomfort to warrant going off of the medicine. If, however, these symptoms persist or become bothersome, a doctor should be consulted for further evaluation.

Confusion is one common side effect of digoxin.
Confusion is one common side effect of digoxin.

Other potential digoxin side effects may include an unusual amount of tiredness, body weakness, or drowsiness. The heart rate may become slower, or the patient may experience heart palpitations. Some patients have reported visual changes, confusion, or fainting. Facial swelling, hives, or sudden breathing difficulty may indicate a severe allergic reaction and may become life threatening if not treated immediately.

Heart palpitations are one possible side effect of digoxin.
Heart palpitations are one possible side effect of digoxin.

Certain medications may change the effectiveness of this medication or increase the risks of other digoxin side effects. Some of these medications may include over-the-counter or prescription antacids, medications used to lower cholesterol levels, or laxatives. Some high-fiber foods and medications that are designed to prevent diarrhea may need to be avoided.

Drowsiness is a common digoxin side effect, and may make it difficult to concentrate at work or on other tasks.
Drowsiness is a common digoxin side effect, and may make it difficult to concentrate at work or on other tasks.

Some digoxin side effects may become present when the dosage needs to be changed. These side effects need to be reported to a doctor right away and may include extreme shortness of breath, difficulty walking or climbing stairs, or a pulse that is measured at more than 100 beats per minute. Increased ankle swelling or a more frequent need to urinate at night should also be reported. Heart palpitations, or a feeling that the heart is racing far too fast, may be a sign of a serious complication. Extreme dizziness, especially if it leads to fainting, indicates a need to receive immediate medical attention.

Discussion Comments

Rundocuri

My grandfather takes digoxin for his heart problems, and he is now able to live a full life and do the things he loves to do. Before he started taking it, his heart beat too irregularly for some activities. In spite of the potential side effects, digoxin has truly been a miracle drug for him.

Spotiche5

Though digoxin can cause some scary side effects, it is important to keep in mind that it also very beneficial for many patients. Anyone who has been prescribed this drug must have good communication with his or her doctor to ensure that side effects are clearly understood.

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    • A doctor should be consulted for persistent or severe side effects from taking digoxin.
      By: Shakzu
      A doctor should be consulted for persistent or severe side effects from taking digoxin.
    • Confusion is one common side effect of digoxin.
      By: chuugo
      Confusion is one common side effect of digoxin.
    • Heart palpitations are one possible side effect of digoxin.
      By: forestpath
      Heart palpitations are one possible side effect of digoxin.
    • Drowsiness is a common digoxin side effect, and may make it difficult to concentrate at work or on other tasks.
      By: oporkka
      Drowsiness is a common digoxin side effect, and may make it difficult to concentrate at work or on other tasks.
    • Nausea is one possible side effect of digoxin.
      By: Alliance
      Nausea is one possible side effect of digoxin.
    • Diarrhea is one possible side effect of digoxin.
      By: JPagetRFphotos
      Diarrhea is one possible side effect of digoxin.
    • Fainting may occur when taking digoxin.
      By: Helder Almeida
      Fainting may occur when taking digoxin.