Digoxin


Product Info
Digoxin is a prescription heart medication used in canines and felines. The product is available in 0.125mg and 0.25mg tablets.
What the product cures
Digoxin is indicated for treating heart problems such as heart failure, arrhythmia, and dilated cardiomyopathy.
Pet Symptoms
Digoxin

Cardiomyopathy is a general term used to describe diseases affecting the muscles in the heart. The condition can be further categorized into three types; dilated, hypertrophic, and restrictive cardiomyopathy.
Dilated cardiomyopathy develops when the muscles in the heart are unable to contract correctly. This affects the circulatory system, as not enough blood is pumped throughout the body, which then leads to various problems such as tachycardia, arrhythmia, and heart failure. This type of cardiomyopathy is more prevalent in large dog breeds and is thought to be hereditary. Cats can also develop the condition although it is not as common, and it is usually a result of taurine deficiency.
In felines, the most common form of cardiomyopathy is hypertrophic. It is a genetic condition that has an unknown cause and that results in thickening of the cardiac muscle and an abnormality in cell development. Restrictive cardiomyopathy is also seen in felines and occurs when the chambers of the heart fill in, causing a disruption in blood circulation.
What are the symptoms of cardiomyopathy?
Cardiomyopathy symptoms can vary, depending on the type and severity of the condition. In certain occasions, dilated cardiomyopathy causes fainting, lethargy, and sometimes even premature death. These symptoms typically occur as a result of fluctuating electrical charge in the cardiac muscle. If the pet has a chronic form of cardiomyopathy, it usually develops into heart failure and causes symptoms such as; respiratory issues, coughing, ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity), lethargy, low tolerance to heat and activity, and fluid buildup in the thorax or lungs. In most cats, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy causes no symptoms. However, the condition can cause fainting, trouble breathing, blood clots, and premature death.
How is the condition treated?
There is no cure for cardiomyopathy, but there are medications available to help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. In cats, blood thinners may also be prescribed, as they have a higher risk of developing blood clots.
Pet Ailments
Pet ailments commonly treated with Digoxin include; congestive heart failure, dilated cardiomyopathy, chronic valve disease, heart wall defects, arrhythmia, heartworm infection, hypertension, and endocarditis.
Pets with Ailments
Digoxin

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Relative info on breed most associated with this ailment
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy seems to be a genetic condition in cats, with the most affected breeds being Maine Coons, Shorthaired, and Persians. In canines, breeds susceptible to the disease include; Cocker Spaniel (English and American), Great Dane, Springer Spaniel, German Shepherd, St. Bernard, Labrador, Newfoundland, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Boxer, and Doberman.
Questions for the vet & product
1. Is there anything I should talk with my vet about before Digoxin is prescribed?
Let your vet know if your dog or cat has been diagnosed with renal or thyroid disease, or is on any other heart drugs. It is also advised that you let him or her know if your pet is expecting or nursing.
2. What happens if I miss giving a dose?
The skipped dose should be given ASAP, unless it is just about time for the next one, in which case you can wait to give it then as usual. Do NOT give two doses to make up for the missed one.
3. What if an overdose happens?
Prompt veterinary care should be sought for your pet. Signs of a Digoxin overdose include; vomiting, loss of appetite, loose stools, confusion, seizures, lethargy, arrhythmia, tachycardia, and bradycardia.
4. Are there any side effects associated with the use of Digoxin?
Take your pet to the nearest vet clinic if an allergic reaction (collapse, facial inflammation, hives, respiratory issues, etc.) or serious side effects develop. These include; arrhythmia, rapid heartbeat, bradycardia, unusual behavior, and hallucinations. If mild side effects occur, continue with treatment as planned and consult with your vet as soon as possible for further guidance. Less serious side effects linked to the medication include; lethargy, sleepiness, loose stools, decreased hunger, nausea, and balance issues.
5. Are there any drug contraindications I should know about?
Drugs that may be contraindicated with the use of Digoxin include; antacids, beta-blockers, diuretics, chemotherapy agents, laxatives, calcium channel blockers, steroidal drugs, erythromycin, metoclopramide, levothyroxine, tetracycline, and any medication or supplements containing kaolin-pectin or aluminum magnesium.
How it Works
Digoxin helps minimize cardiac strain and improve overall heart function by decreasing heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and making heart contractions more potent.
Directions for use
This drug is available with a prescription only and should be given as instructed by your veterinarian. The medication should be administered on an empty stomach and around the same time daily. It is also important that plenty of water is provided throughout treatment.
Dosage and administration: The usual dosage for dogs is 0.0025mg to 0.005mg per pound twice daily (every 12 hrs.), and 0.0015mg to 0.002mg per pound twice a day (every 12 hours) for cats.
Ingredients
This product contains 0.125mg or 0.25mg of Digoxin depending on the strength.
Product Cautions
Do NOT adjust your pet’s dosage without first consulting with your veterinarian, as it can result in serious side effects.
Let your vet know if your pet develops appetite loss, vomiting, loose stools, balance issues, urination problems, or lethargy while taking Digoxin.
Do NOT stop treatment all of a sudden. This can worsen your pet’s condition and lead to complications.
Regular blood work and additional tests may be required to keep Digoxin levels in your pet’s body safe.
PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL HAZARDS:
Keep secure where children and pets cannot reach
This product is for use in animals only.
FIRST AID:
If swallowed: Loosen accessories and clothes and seek medical help as soon as possible. Do NOT give anything orally if the victim isn’t awake or cause vomiting, unless told to do so by a physician.
If in eyes: Remove contacts and rinse eyes with clean water for a minimum of 15 minutes. Get help from a healthcare professional right away.
If on skin: Use water to wash affected area thoroughly for 15 minutes or so, followed by an application of moisturizer. Remove clothing, shoes, and accessories that have been spoiled. Consult with your doctor for further guidance.
If inhaled: Place victim in an area where fresh air is readily accessible. Seek emergency medical help and perform mouth to mouth if necessary.
Storage & Disposal
Storage: Keep product at room temperature in its original container and away from light/heat.
Disposal: Dispose of container and medication in accordance to waste regulations.
Brand vs. generic comparison: Digoxin is the generic version of brand name drugs such as Cardoxin and Lanoxin.