β Generic Name:
Digoxin Injection 0.25 mg/mL
Also called: Digoxin intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injection
β Prescription Status:
Prescription-only (Rx) β Must be administered by trained healthcare professionals.
π Description:
Digoxin Injection is a sterile, clear, aqueous solution containing 0.25 mg of digoxin per 1 mL. It is used for rapid digitalization in urgent cardiac conditions like atrial fibrillation or heart failure when oral therapy is not feasible.
πΏ Nature / Drug Class:
- Drug Class: Cardiac glycoside
- Source: Derived from Digitalis lanata (foxglove plant)
- Mechanism of Action:
- Inhibits NaβΊ/KβΊ-ATPase pump
- Increases intracellular calcium in cardiac cells
- Leads to increased contractility (positive inotropic effect)
- Slows AV nodal conduction (useful in arrhythmias)
π― Purpose / Indications:
- Rapid control of ventricular rate in:
- Atrial fibrillation
- Atrial flutter
- Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (especially acute exacerbations)
- When oral administration is not possible or too slow
- Used in emergency or critical care settings
β Advantages:
- Fast onset of action (10β30 minutes IV)
- Direct control of arrhythmias in emergencies
- Precise dosage and serum level control
- Option when oral absorption is impaired
- Useful in neonates, infants, and critically ill adults
π Dosage & Administration:
- Route: Intravenous (preferred), or Intramuscular (less common; painful)
- Loading dose may be required, calculated based on lean body weight and renal function
- Administer IV slowly over at least 5 minutes
- Monitor heart rate, rhythm, and serum digoxin levels
π¦ Common Packaging:
- Ampoules or vials containing 1 mL or 2 mL
- Each 1 mL = 0.25 mg digoxin
- Supplied in packs of 5 or 10 ampoules
- Amber glass or clear ampoules labeled for IV use
βοΈ Storage Conditions:
- Store at 2Β°C to 8Β°C (refrigerated) or up to 25Β°C (room temp, depending on brand)
- Protect from light (keep in original box)
- Do not use if solution is cloudy or discolored
- Keep out of reach of children
π¨ββοΈ Patient Advice / Precautions:
- This medicine is administered in a hospital β not for home use
- Inform your doctor of:
- Kidney problems
- Electrolyte imbalance (especially low potassium or magnesium)
- Use of other cardiac medications
- Do not mix with other drugs in the same syringe without checking compatibility