Digoxin: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Digoxin steadies certain fast heart rhythms and supports a failing heart; it needs careful dosing. It belongs to the Heart medicine (angina, rhythm & failure) group. These support the heart in angina, heart failure and rhythm problems.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Heart medicine (angina, rhythm & failure)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Slowing the heart rate in atrial fibrillation
Slowing the heart rate in atrial flutter
Heart failure symptoms (add-on)

Common brand names

India: Lanoxin, Digoxin
Worldwide: Lanoxin

Common side effects

Nausea or loss of appetite
Diarrhoea
Dizziness or tiredness
Blurred or yellow-tinged vision (sign of high levels)

Before taking it — precautions

Kidney disease, older age and low potassium raise the risk of toxicity; blood tests may be needed
Many medicines (some heart, antibiotic and water tablets) change its level; tell your doctor
Do not change brands or stop without advice

When to see a doctor urgently

Nausea, vomiting, confusion or yellow-green vision (toxicity, urgent)
Very slow or irregular heartbeat (urgent)
Fainting

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of digoxin depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Why does digoxin need blood tests?

The safe range is narrow. Blood levels, potassium and kidney tests help avoid toxicity.

What are signs of too much digoxin?

Nausea, vomiting, confusion, changes in colour vision and a slow or irregular pulse. Seek help quickly.

Does digoxin cure heart failure?

No. It eases symptoms and controls heart rate but does not cure the underlying condition.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.