Cardiac glycosides for congenital heart defects
Content provided by Healthwise
Examples
| Brand Name | Generic Name |
| Lanoxin | digoxin |
How It Works
Cardiac glycosides slow and strengthen the heartbeat by affecting the natural electrical system of the heart.
Why It Is Used
Cardiac glycosides most often are used to treat severe heart failure and atrial fibrillation that can occur with congenital heart defects. These conditions are more common in complex defects, such as:
- Tetralogy of Fallot.
- Transposition of the great vessels.
- Atrial septal defect or other defects involving the upper chambers (atria) of the heart.
It sometimes takes several weeks to determine the correct dose of this medicine. Cardiac glycosides most often are taken as pills but are also available in liquid form.
How Well It Works
Cardiac glycosides help:
- Control rapid irregular heartbeats.
- Reduce the backup of blood and fluid in the body that can cause swelling in the arms and legs and difficulty breathing.
- Increase blood flow through the kidneys, which helps get rid of salt (sodium) and relieves swelling in the tissues of the body.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of cardiac glycosides include:
- Buildup of the medicine in the body. Symptoms include confusion, nausea, loss of appetite, and trouble with vision.
- Slow (bradycardia) or rapid (tachycardia) heartbeats, especially in people who are also taking diuretics.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Cardiac glycosides are one of the most commonly prescribed medicines to treat heart failure, but there is some controversy over their use. Talk with your doctor if you have questions.
Regular blood tests may be done to monitor levels of cardiac glycosides.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
Credits
| Author | Robin Parks, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology |
| Last Updated | October 25, 2007 |
| Last updated: | October 25, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Robin Parks, MS |
| Reviewed By: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Related Articles
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
