Lanoxin and Alcohol Interaction

Lanoxin and Alcohol

Lanoxin generic name digoxin is also sold under brand names Digitek and Lanoxicaps is a drug which is derived from the leaves of the digitalis plant and functions by making the heart beat stronger and beating with a more regular rhythm. It is used to treat congestive heart failure.

It works by slowing the heart rate in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation which is a heart rhythm disorder of the upper chambers of the heart that allow blood to flow into the heart.

It is suggested moderate or no alcohol consumption while using this drug.

At this time the medical community defines moderate consumption of alcohol as no more than two drinks per day and no more than 14 drinks per week. Anything more than that is considered an unhealthy dependency on alcohol that may have adverse social, family and health consequences.

If a person drinks only once or twice a week but drinks on the same days each week and more than two drinks this is considered as an alcohol dependency.

If a person binge drinks at any time during the week this is also considered as alcoholism.

Some consider alcoholism as a disease while others consider it an addiction which is the result of personal choice and character fault. This school of thought blames the alcoholism on life style choices.

Personally I consider alcoholism a genetic tendency as I have seen families of alcoholics even when they live far apart. These unfortunate people are probably dependent on alcohol from the first drink.

When alcohol interacts with prescription over the counter drugs it usually results in negative health effects most especially liver damage as the main organ affected.

Before using Lanoxin it is suggested that you advise your physician if you are allergic to this or any other drug or substance, if you are pregnant, plan to be so or are breastfeeding, have certain heart conditions such as AV block, recent history of heart attack, kidney disease, thyroid disorder, electrolytic imbalance such as low levels of calcium, potassium or magnesium in your blood, are malnourished or have had recent bouts of diarrhea and vomiting.

Side Effects

Less serious side effects are mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, feeling weak or dizzy, headache, enlarged breasts in men or mild skin rash. If these occur call your physician for advice.

Serious side effects severe allergic reaction such as hives difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, fast slow uneven heart rate, bloody or black tarry stools, blurred vision, yellowed vision, confusion, hallucinations or unusual thoughts or behaviour. If these occur get emergency medical help.

This site serves as an information source only and does not dispense medical advice or any other kind of advice. If you are seeking medical advice you are advised to consult your own physician.

Lanoxin and Alcohol Lanoxin and Alcohol

Drugs and Alcohol

Return from Lanoxin and Alcohol to home page.

Hard copy and E book for sale. What's Killing You and What You Can Do About It. Click here.

Hard copy and E book for sale. Introduction to Building Mechanical Systems. Click here.