Digoxin Side Effects

Clinical studies have shown that dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea are some of the most common side effects of digoxin. Most reactions to this medication tend to be minor and are typically easy for you or your healthcare provider to treat. However, notify your healthcare provider right away if you develop more serious problems, such as hallucinations, difficulty breathing, or blurred vision.

An Introduction to Digoxin Side Effects

Just like any medicine, digoxin (Lanoxin®) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with digoxin. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Digoxin

Digoxin has been studied extensively in clinical trials.
 In these studies, the side effects that occurred in a group of people taking digoxin were documented and then compared to the side effects that occurred in a similar group of people taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" that does not contain any active ingredients).
 
In these studies, the most common digoxin side effects included:
 
  • Dizziness -- in up to 4.9 percent of people
  • Nausea -- up to 3.2 percent
  • Diarrhea -- up to 3.2 percent
  • Headaches -- up to 3.2 percent
  • Vomiting -- up to 1.6 percent
  • Rash -- up to 1.6 percent.
 
Digoxin Side Effects Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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