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Digoxin Poisoning

Acute or chronic digoxin toxicity causes dangerous arrhythmias and is treated with the specific antidote Digibind.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Digoxin Poisoning?

Digoxin poisoning is a clinical condition resulting from overdose or accumulation of this cardiac glycoside, which has a narrow therapeutic range.

Acute poisoning manifests with hyperkalemia, ventricular tachycardia and altered consciousness; chronic cases present with hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia and yellow-green vision changes.

The specific antidote, anti-digoxin Fab fragment (Digibind), is life-saving. Calcium administration is not recommended in chronic poisoning as it may increase arrhythmia risk.

Symptoms

Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
Blurred vision, yellow-green color perception
Weakness, confusion
Bradycardia and AV block
Ventricular tachycardia
Hyperkalemia (acute)
Hypokalemia (chronic)

Risk Factors

Elderly patients
Renal failure
Hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia
Concomitant amiodarone, verapamil, quinidine use
Dehydration
Medication non-compliance or wrong dose
Accidental ingestion in children

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Digoxin level should be checked if nausea, visual disturbance and weakness are present
  • Stop the medication and contact your doctor before going to the hospital
  • Altered consciousness, arrhythmia and hypotension are emergencies
  • Call 112 immediately for an overdose

Treatment Methods

01
Determination of ingestion time and dose
02
Measurement of digoxin level, electrolytes and creatinine
03
ECG and continuous rhythm monitoring
04
Lowering of potassium in hyperkalemia
05
Digibind (anti-digoxin Fab) infusion
06
Atropine, temporary pacemaker (bradycardia)
07
Lidocaine or phenytoin (ventricular arrhythmia)
08
Supportive care and intensive care unit

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.