(dye-JOKS-in)

Digoxin (Lanoxin®) is a medicine used for various heart conditions including abnormal heart rhythms, congestive heart failure, and single ventricle patients. It is used to improve the strength and efficiency of the heart, or to control the rate and rhythm of the heartbeat. This leads to improved circulation (blood flow) and less swelling of hands and ankles.

Digoxin is available as a tablet or liquid. This medicine is also called Digitalis.

Special Instructions

• Give this medication only as directed, and do not stop unless directed to stop by your child's doctor.
• Do not give any other medicine, prescription or over-the-counter (OTC), without first talking to your child's doctor.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.
• While your child is taking digoxin, the doctor may want you to check your child's pulse (heart rate) daily. If it is much slower or more rapid than usual, notify the doctor. Such changes may be a sign of medication side effects.
• Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle/package.
• Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
• If too much medication is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC) at 513-636-5111, or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately.

If Your Child Misses a Dose

• For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
• If a dose was vomited, do NOT give another dose. Continue with the normal dose amount at the next scheduled time.

Possible Side Effects of Medication

• Lower stomach pain
• Tiredness or weakness
• Drowsiness
• Confusion or depression
• Headache

Call Your Child's Doctor If You Notice:

• Decreased appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fainting
• Diarrhea
• Visual changes
• Slow or fast heart rate
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling in the lower legs or ankles

These may be signs that the dose needs to be changed. Do not change the dose without first checking with your child's doctor.