digoxin

Digoxin, which belongs to the cardiac glycoside family of medications, is used to treat various heart conditions, namely atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and heart failure. Basically, Digoxin increases the force of contraction of the muscle of the heart by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme that controls movement of calcium, sodium, and potassium into heart muscle. Inhibiting said enzyme eventually increases calcium in heart muscle and therefore increases the force of heart contractions. It is actually better to take Digoxin on an empty stomach. When it comes to the side effects of this medication, they include breast enlargement with other side effects generally due to an excessive dose. Besides, these side effects may also include loss of appetite, nausea, trouble seeing, confusion, and an irregular heartbeat. Bear in mind that greater care is required in older people and those with poor kidney function. It is, however, unclear whether the use of Digoxin during pregnancy is safe. So, you need to consult your doctor before using it if you plan on having kids.