Medication Information for: Digoxin oral elixir (Lanoxin and generics)

(dij-ox-in)

Why? Digoxin is used in babies with heart problems. It helps the heart beat slower and makes more regularly. It also makes the heart stronger and helps the baby tire less easily. The pediatrician and cardiologist will decide how long digoxin is needed. Do not stop the medicine or change the dose without talking to the doctor. Tests like an EKG or heart echo may help make the decision.

How? Give digoxin as ordered. Digoxin is usually given two times a day.

Your baby's dose is:
_________ml,_____________times a day at _________o'clock and ___________o'clock.

Measure the dose and mix it with a small amount of milk before you give it to the baby.

Digoxin does not have to be kept in the refrigerator.

Any problems? Most side effects of digoxin would be seen in the hospital before the baby goes home. It is absolutely critical that the dose be carefully measured. Use a 1 ml syringe to measure the dose. Check the dose carefully. Digoxin can be poisonous if too much is given. Decreased appetite, vomiting or diarrhea are signs that the baby could be getting too much digoxin.

Sometimes the baby will need a blood test called "electrolytes" or digoxin level. The test tells the doctor if the baby has enough fluid and salt in the body and helps determine if more or less medicine is needed. Some babies need potassium supplements while on digoxin, especially if furosemide (Lasix) is needed to help with body water. Digoxin is greatly affected by changes in body water. Careful balancing of water, digoxin and sometimes medicines like furosemide (Lasix) or Aldactazide is needed.

ALWAYS KEEP ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

Check your supply before vacations, holidays and other times when you may not be able to obtain more.

Kelly Burch, PharmD
November, 1999
Revised August, 2004