Using Lanoxin - Heart Disease Treatment for Pets Lanoxin (Brand Name to Digoxin) Helps Cats and Dogs Who Suffer from Congestive Heart Failure

Digoxin, an inotropic drug, belongs to the class of cardiac glycoside drugs. The medication is effective against the treatment of various heart diseases including congestive heart failure, atrial flutter, and atrial fibrillation. Digoxin, the active ingredient in the medication, increases heart muscle contraction and reduces heart rate. The increase in the contraction strength of the heart in turn results in an increase in the amount of blood pumped out of the heart. This action puts a control on the fluid buildup in the lungs.

Extreme caution is required when used in animals with digitalis overdose, ventricular fibrillation, electrolyte abnormalities and other kidney, heart or lung disorders. The medication should not be used in animals with hyperthyroidism, ventricular fibrillation, kidney failure or allergy to the drug. Using the drug in animals with allergy to digoxin could result in adverse side effects. Antacids and metoclopramide tend to reduce the effect of digoxin. Avoid using the medication with diuretics like furosemide or HCTZ, quinidine, verapamil, laxatives, tetracycline, chemotherapy drugs, erythromycin or corticosteroids like prednisone. It is advised to inform the veterinarian or pharmacist about the medications the pet is taking. Keep the medication at room temperature, away from excess heat, moisture and light. The dosage of the drug should be chosen with care, depending on the clinical condition of the pet.

Lanoxin comes in capsule, tablet, liquid, and injectable forms. The recommended dosage for dogs is 0.0025 – 0.005 mg/lbs every 12 hours and 0015 -0.002 mg/lbs every 12 hours for cats. The medicine should be given on an empty stomach.

Most commonly, side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, depression, lack of appetite and uneven heart rhythms are observed in cats and dogs. Cardiac arrhythmias, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea are chiefly triggered by high dosage.

Digoxin, Cardoxin, Digitek