Chapter 2 - Cardiac glycosides

Question 1

Digoxin is most useful for controlling which of the following conditions:

A) persistent and permanent AF
B) paroxysmal AF
C) heart failure

Answer 1

A) persistent and permanent AF

Digoxin can be used for the treatment of heart failure for patients in sinus rhythm

Question 2

When is digoxin effective as a treatment for rate control in AF?

Answer 2

Digoxin has shown to be effective for controlling rate at rest. Suited for a patient who leads a sedentary lifestyle.

Question 3

Digoxin toxicity is likely to occur through the range of …………………………..micrograms/L?

Answer 3

1.5-3mcg/L

Question 4

Which electrolyte imbalance in particular predisposes a patient to dogoxin toxicity?

Answer 4

Hypokalaemia

Question 5

When should blood be taken to monitor serum digoxin levels?

Answer 5

6 hours after a dose

Question 6

When switching from IV to oral digoxin, an increase of ….. to …… % may be required to maintain the same plasma-digoxin level

Answer 6

20-33%

Question 7

What is the drug action of digoxin?

Answer 7

Increases the force of myocardial contraction and reduces conductivity in the AV node

Question 8

What monitoring requirements are needed for digoxin?

Answer 8

Renal function
Serum electrolytes (disturbances may lead to toxicity)