Lanoxin (digoxin) is derived from the leaves of a digitalis plant. Digoxin helps make the heart beat stronger and with a more regular rhythm.
Lanoxin is used to treat heart failure.
Lanoxin is also used to treat atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder of the atria (the upper chambers of the heart that allow blood to flow into the heart).
Lanoxin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
You should not use Lanoxin if you have ventricular fibrillation (a heart rhythm disorder of the ventricles, or lower chambers of the heart that allow blood to flow out of the heart).
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Lanoxin if you are allergic to digoxin, or if you have ventricular fibrillation (a heart rhythm disorder of the ventricles, or lower chambers of the heart that allow blood to flow out of the heart).
To make sure Lanoxin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
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a serious heart condition such as "sick sinus syndrome" or "AV block" (unless you have a pacemaker);
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a recent history of heart attack;
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kidney disease;
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a thyroid disorder;
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an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of calcium, potassium, or magnesium in your blood); or
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if you are malnourished or have recently been sick with vomiting or diarrhea.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Lanoxin will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
Digoxin can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Serious side effects may be more likely in older adults and those who are ill or debilitated.
How should I take Lanoxin?
Take Lanoxin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Try to take the medication at the same time every day.
While using Lanoxin, you may need frequent blood tests. Your kidney function may also need to be checked.
Use Lanoxin regularly even if you feel fine or have no symptoms. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
You should not stop using Lanoxin suddenly. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if your next dose is less than 12 hours away. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of digoxin can be fatal.
What should I avoid while taking Lanoxin?
Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise, in hot weather, or by not drinking enough fluids. Lanoxin overdose can occur more easily if you are dehydrated.
Lanoxin side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Lanoxin: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
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fast, slow, or uneven heart rate;
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bloody or black, tarry stools;
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blurred vision, yellowed vision; or
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confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior.
Common Lanoxin side effects may include:
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nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite;
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feeling weak or dizzy;
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headache, weakness, anxiety, depression;
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enlarged breasts in men; or
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mild skin rash.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Lanoxin?
Other drugs may interact with digoxin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.
