Doctors Warn: Monitor Digoxin Levels to Avoid Serious Health Risks
Doctors are warning about the importance of monitoring digoxin levels, a drug commonly used to treat heart failure and irregular heartbeats. Both too much and too little of the drug can cause serious health issues.
Symptoms of high digoxin levels include dizziness, seeing halos around lights, nausea, diarrhea, and irregular heartbeats. Conversely, low levels can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the hands and feet. Doctors perform regular digoxin tests to ensure the drug level remains within the safe range of 0.5 to 2.0 ng/mL. Levels above 4.0 ng/mL are considered toxic and can be life-threatening.
Digoxin tests are crucial as the drug has a narrow safe range and can be toxic in large amounts or incorrect doses. Factors like infections, heart or liver insufficiency, and certain medications can influence how the body eliminates digoxin, making regular monitoring essential. Young children and older adults are particularly at risk for digoxin overdose.
Doctors emphasize the importance of regular digoxin testing to maintain levels within the safe range. Patients should be aware of the symptoms of both high and low levels and report any concerns to their healthcare provider immediately.
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