Digitalis toxicity
Treatment:
In an emergency assist breathing as needed (see CPR). Obtain professional medical assistance. Arrhythmias are treated according to which arrhythmia develops.
If toxicity is from a recent, acute single exposure, gastric lavage ("pumping the stomach") may be performed and charcoal is given. Digitoxin levels may reduce with repeated doses of charcoal. Lavage is recommended over inducing vomiting because vomiting can aggravate slow heart rhythms.
Medications such as digoxin specific antibodies may be prescribed. Hemodialysis may be required to reduce the levels of digitalis in the body.
Expectations (prognosis):
The outcome varies depending on the extent of toxicity and arrhythmias that develop.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if you are taking a digitalis medication and symptoms of digitalis toxicity develop.
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