What is digoxin 0.25mg tablet used for?

This medicine is a cardiac glycoside used to treat heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It works by strengthening heart contractions and slowing heart rate. It requires careful dosing and regular monitoring.

Generic Name: Digoxin
Manufacturer: Glaxo SmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Form: Allopathy
Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 digoxin 0.25mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा डिगॉक्सिन 0.25 मिलीग्राम की गोली है, जिसका उपयोग हृदय विफलता (हार्ट फेल्योर) और अनियमित दिल की धड़कन (एट्रियल फाइब्रिलेशन) के इलाज में किया जाता है। यह दिल की मांसपेशियों की संकुचन शक्ति को बढ़ाती है और दिल की धड़कन को नियंत्रित करने में मदद करती है। यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर के पर्चे पर ही मिलती है और इसका सेवन डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही करना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, भूख न लगना, दस्त, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना और दृष्टि में धुंधलापन शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में दिल की धड़कन में गड़बड़ी, बेहोशी और सांस लेने में कठिनाई हो सकती है। यदि आपको ऐसे लक्षण महसूस हों तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को हमेशा डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। खुराक को कभी भी स्वयं कम या ज्यादा न करें। नियमित रूप से रक्त परीक्षण करवाएं ताकि डिगॉक्सिन का स्तर और गुर्दे की कार्यप्रणाली की निगरानी हो सके। यदि आपकी नाड़ी 60 से कम हो या अनियमित हो, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। एंटासिड या लैक्सेटिव लेने से पहले डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। इस दवा को कमरे के तापमान पर, नमी और गर्मी से दूर रखें।

💊 digoxin 0.25mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Heart failure","description":"This medicine is used to improve symptoms and reduce hospitalizations in patients with heart failure by increasing the force of heart contractions.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Atrial fibrillation","description":"This medicine helps control the heart rate in patients with atrial fibrillation by slowing conduction through the atrioventricular node.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Atrial flutter","description":"This medicine may be used to slow the ventricular rate in patients with atrial flutter.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Supraventricular tachycardia","description":"In some cases, this medicine is used to manage certain types of supraventricular tachycardia, though other treatments are often preferred.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Congenital heart disease","description":"Sometimes used in pediatric cardiology for specific congenital heart conditions, but only under specialist care.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Fetal arrhythmias","description":"In rare cases, this medicine may be given to the mother to treat fetal arrhythmias, under close specialist supervision.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Heart failure

Also treats: Atrial fibrillation, Atrial flutter, Supraventricular tachycardia

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)	Digoxin
Brand Name	Cardisip Syrup
Manufacturer	Glaxo SmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Packaging / Form	Varies by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic Class	CARDIAC
Action Class	Cardiac glycosides
Route of Administration	Oral
Storage	Store at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life	24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO Guideline	Not established from the available information.
ICMR Guideline	Not established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1

Always check the pulse before taking this medicine; if it is below 60 beats per minute, hold the dose and consult your doctor.

2

Take this medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.

3

Inform your doctor about all other medicines, especially diuretics, antibiotics, and heart medicines, as interactions are common.

4

Watch for signs of toxicity such as nausea, vomiting, visual changes, or confusion, and report them immediately.

5

Keep all appointments for blood tests to monitor Digoxin levels and kidney function.

6

Do not take antacids or laxatives within two hours of this medicine.

7

If you miss a dose, do not double the next dose; follow the missed dose instructions.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅

Shortness of breath due to heart failure

This medicine is commonly prescribed for this condition.

Likely Use

✅

Irregular heartbeat due to atrial fibrillation

This medicine helps control heart rate in atrial fibrillation.

Likely Use

❌

Fever

This medicine is not a fever reducer.

Not Primary

❌

Headache

This medicine is not a pain reliever.

Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with a bioavailability of approximately 60-80% for the tablet formulation. Food may delay the rate but not the extent of absorption.

DistributionThis medicine is widely distributed throughout body tissues, with a large volume of distribution. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta, and is excreted in breast milk.

Protein BindingApproximately 20-25% bound to plasma proteins.

MetabolismThis medicine is minimally metabolized in the liver; most of the dose is excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

Half-LifeThe elimination half-life is approximately 36-48 hours in patients with normal renal function, and it is prolonged in renal impairment.

ExcretionThis medicine is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.

Bioavailability60-80% for the oral tablet.

Onset of ActionFor oral tablets, the onset of action is within 1-2 hours, but therapeutic effects may take several days to fully develop.

Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentration occurs approximately 1-2 hours after oral administration.

Duration of ActionThe duration of action is approximately 3-4 days after a single dose, due to the long half-life.

How It Works

This medicine works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium ATPase pump in cardiac muscle cells. This inhibition leads to an increase in intracellular sodium, which in turn reduces the activity of the sodium-calcium exchanger, resulting in higher intracellular calcium levels. The increased calcium enhances the force of cardiac muscle contraction, a positive inotropic effect. Additionally, this medicine increases vagal tone, which slows conduction through the atrioventricular node and prolongs the refractory period, helping to control heart rate in atrial fibrillation and flutter.

Mechanism Steps

1

Inhibition of Na+/K+-ATPase: This medicine binds to and inhibits the sodium-potassium ATPase pump on the cell membrane of cardiac myocytes.

2

Increase in intracellular sodium: Inhibition of the pump causes sodium to accumulate inside the cell.

3

Reduced sodium-calcium exchange: The elevated intracellular sodium reduces the driving force for the sodium-calcium exchanger, leading to less calcium being expelled from the cell.

4

Increased intracellular calcium: Higher calcium levels are available for release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum during each action potential.

5

Enhanced cardiac contractility: The increased calcium availability strengthens the force of cardiac muscle contraction, improving cardiac output.

6

Increased vagal tone: This medicine also enhances parasympathetic (vagal) activity, which slows conduction through the atrioventricular node and helps control heart rate.

💡 How to Take digoxin 0.25mg tablet

Strength: 0.25 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.

3Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.

4You may take it with or without food, but be consistent.

5If you have trouble swallowing the tablet, ask your pharmacist for advice.

6Do not crush or chew the tablet unless instructed by your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult Dosage	The dose of this medicine must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal function, and other medications. For heart failure, a common maintenance dose is 0.125 mg to 0.25 mg once daily, but lower doses are often used in elderly patients or those with renal impairment. For atrial fibrillation, the dose may be higher initially to control heart rate, followed by a maintenance dose. Always follow your doctor's prescription exactly. Do not adjust the dose without medical advice.
Pediatric Dosage	Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly Dosage	Elderly patients are more sensitive to the effects of this medicine and are at higher risk of toxicity. Lower doses are often required, and renal function should be monitored closely. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal Impairment	In patients with renal impairment, the dose of this medicine must be reduced and individualized based on creatinine clearance. Monitoring of serum Digoxin levels is essential.
Hepatic Impairment	Hepatic impairment does not significantly affect the elimination of this medicine, but caution is advised. Dose adjustment is usually not required, but monitoring is recommended.
Maximum Daily Dose	The maximum daily dose is individualized and should not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. In general, doses above 0.25 mg per day are rarely used except in specific circumstances under close supervision.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food

Take with meals

Reduces stomach upset and nausea.

High-fiber foods

Separate by 2 hours

Fiber can reduce absorption of this medicine.

Grapefruit juice

Avoid

May increase levels of this medicine.

Licorice

Avoid

Can cause potassium loss and increase toxicity risk.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose

→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.

💡 Continue with your regular schedule.

📌 More than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose

→ Skip the missed dose.

💡 Do not double the dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of digoxin 0.25mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (up to 10%))

Take with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.

Vomiting (Common (up to 10%))

Stay hydrated. If vomiting is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.

Loss of appetite (Common (up to 10%))

Eat small, frequent meals. Inform your doctor if it continues.

Diarrhea (Common (up to 10%))

Drink plenty of fluids. Consult doctor if diarrhea is severe or lasts more than 2 days.

Headache (Common (up to 10%))

Rest and stay hydrated. If headache is severe or persistent, seek medical advice.

Dizziness (Common (up to 10%))

Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Cardiac arrhythmias (Uncommon (0.1-1%))

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience palpitations, fainting, or shortness of breath.

Digoxin toxicity (Uncommon (0.1-1%))

Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, confusion, and slow heartbeat. Seek emergency care immediately.

Severe bradycardia (Rare (<0.1%))

If your pulse is below 60 beats per minute and you feel dizzy or faint, seek medical attention urgently.

Heart block (Rare (<0.1%))

Report any fainting or extreme fatigue to your doctor immediately.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Gynecomastia

Consult your doctor if breast enlargement or tenderness occurs.

Thrombocytopenia

Report unusual bruising or bleeding to your doctor promptly.

Psychosis

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience confusion, hallucinations, or paranoia.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug	Severity	Effect
Amiodarone	Major
Verapamil	Major
Quinidine	Major
Furosemide	Major
Cyclosporine	Major
Antacids	Moderate
Sucralfate	Moderate
Metoclopramide	Moderate
Erythromycin	Minor
Corticosteroids	Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

Amiodarone
Verapamil
Quinidine
Diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide)
Cyclosporine

⚡ Moderate Interactions

Antacids
Sucralfate
Metoclopramide
Penicillamine

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may worsen heart failure and increase the risk of low blood pressure and dizziness. It is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to Digoxin or other cardiac glycosides","Ventricular fibrillation","Second- or third-degree heart block without a pacemaker","Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome with atrial fibrillation","Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of toxicity.","Monitor renal function closely; dose adjustment may be needed.","Correct electrolyte imbalances (especially potassium and magnesium) before and during therapy.","Avoid in patients with severe myocarditis.","Use with caution in patients with recent myocardial infarction.","Do not use to treat obesity or weight loss.","Inform patients about the signs of toxicity and when to seek help."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but monitor the infant for signs of toxicity. Consult your doctor.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can be life-threatening. Symptoms include severe nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, confusion, and cardiac arrhythmias. Immediate medical attention is required. Treatment may include activated charcoal, correction of electrolyte imbalances, and administration of Digoxin-specific antibody fragments (DigiFab). Supportive care and continuous cardiac monitoring are essential.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if less than 12 hours have passed. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. Consult your doctor if you are unsure.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Always take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop taking it without consulting your cardiologist. Keep all scheduled appointments for blood tests to monitor Digoxin levels and kidney function. Learn to check your pulse; if it is below 60 beats per minute or irregular, inform your doctor before taking the next dose. Avoid taking antacids or laxatives within two hours of this medicine, as they can reduce its absorption. Tell your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially diuretics, antibiotics, and heart medicines. If you miss a dose, follow your doctor's instructions; do not double the dose. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children. If you experience signs of toxicity such as nausea, vomiting, visual changes, or a very slow heartbeat, seek medical attention immediately.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to this medicine and have a higher risk of toxicity. Lower doses are often required, and renal function should be monitored closely. Regular assessment of pulse and Digoxin levels is essential.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor. This medicine may be used during pregnancy if clearly needed, but the dose may need adjustment. Close monitoring is required.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with anesthetic agents and affect heart rhythm. Monitoring may be required.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may interact with certain local anesthetics or antibiotics. Your dentist may consult your doctor.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on your heart.

🥗

Follow a low-sodium diet to manage heart failure symptoms.

😴

Engage in regular, moderate exercise as advised by your doctor.

💧

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.

🧘

Get adequate rest and manage stress.

🌞

Monitor your pulse daily and keep a record.

🚭

Take your medicines at the same time each day.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Moderate exercise is generally beneficial, but avoid strenuous activities until your doctor says it is safe. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness during exercise, stop and seek medical advice.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Limit sodium intake to manage fluid retention.

Include potassium-rich foods like bananas and oranges if your doctor recommends.

Avoid excessive caffeine.

Stay well hydrated unless fluid restriction is advised.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or visual changes, especially when you first start taking it. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their normal activities with appropriate precautions.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects or signs of toxicity, seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may adjust the dose or switch to another medicine.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine requires regular monitoring of serum Digoxin levels, kidney function, and electrolytes. Toxicity can occur if levels become too high. Periodic assessment of heart function and symptoms is necessary. Do not stop the medicine without medical advice.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Beta-blockers

Alternative medicines for heart rate control in atrial fibrillation.

Evidence: Well-established

ACE inhibitors

Used for heart failure to improve survival.

Evidence: Well-established

Diuretics

Used to reduce fluid retention in heart failure.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no specific vaccine interactions with this medicine. However, patients with heart failure should receive annual influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations as recommended by their doctor.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (20-25°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in the original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture

❌ DON'T

Do not store in the bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or moisture. If crossing time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the timing of doses. Carry enough supply for the entire trip. Check local customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 68-year-old man with heart failure and atrial fibrillation

He was started on this medicine 0.25 mg daily. After two weeks, his shortness of breath improved and his heart rate was better controlled. He experienced mild nausea initially, which resolved when he took the medicine with food. Regular blood tests showed therapeutic Digoxin levels.

💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food can reduce nausea, and regular monitoring ensures safety and effectiveness.

👤 A 72-year-old woman with heart failure and reduced kidney function

She was prescribed a lower dose of this medicine (0.125 mg daily) due to her age and renal impairment. She was advised to check her pulse daily. On one occasion, her pulse was 55 beats per minute, so she held the dose and called her doctor. The dose was adjusted, and she remained stable.

💡 Lesson: Elderly patients and those with kidney problems need lower doses and careful monitoring to prevent toxicity.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working within 1-2 hours, but full therapeutic effects may take several days to develop.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, you can take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce nausea. Be consistent.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If less than 12 hours have passed, take the missed dose. If more than 12 hours, skip it and continue your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: Use only if clearly needed and under medical supervision. Consult your doctor.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine if I feel better?

A: No, do not stop without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly can worsen your condition.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

Can I take this medicine long-term?
Will it affect my kidney function?
Can I drive after taking this medicine?
Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
Is it safe to take with other heart medicines?
What are the signs of toxicity?

🔄 Substitutes for digoxin 0.25mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

Myth: This medicine can be taken without regular blood tests.
Fact: Regular blood tests are essential to monitor Digoxin levels and kidney function to prevent toxicity.
Myth: This medicine is a cure for heart failure.
Fact: This medicine helps manage symptoms but does not cure heart failure. It must be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Myth: If I feel better, I can stop taking this medicine.
Fact: Stopping this medicine suddenly can worsen heart failure or cause arrhythmias. Always consult your doctor before stopping.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

Digoxin 0.25 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

Cardioxin 0.25mg Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Digoxin","class":"Cardiac glycoside","half_life":"36-48 hours","main_use":"Heart failure, atrial fibrillation"},{"medicine":"Digitoxin","class":"Cardiac glycoside","half_life":"5-7 days","main_use":"Heart failure, atrial fibrillation"}]

Cardioxin 0.25mg Tablet (Digoxin): Comprehensive Medicine Guide

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

What is digoxin 0.25mg tablet used for?

🇮🇳 digoxin 0.25mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

💊 digoxin 0.25mg tablet Uses & Benefits

📋 Drug Information

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

How It Works

Mechanism Steps

💡 How to Take digoxin 0.25mg tablet

Dosage Information

Dosage Timeline

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

⚠️ Side Effects of digoxin 0.25mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

🚨 Serious Side Effects

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

🔬 Drug Interactions

🚨 Major Interactions

⚡ Moderate Interactions

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

🤱 Lactation Safety

💊 Overdose Management

⏰ Missed Dose

Additional Safety Advice

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

🦷 Dental Procedures

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

🥗 Diet Recommendations

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

🔄 Substitutes for digoxin 0.25mg tablet

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

Brand Alternatives

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

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