Keep Your Heart Healthy with Digitalis

by Sharon Hopkins


Digitalis is a medication used for the treatment of congestive heart failure. This medication is ideal for those with arrhythmias and other rhythm problems. The medications improve the cellular structure of the heart muscles, therefore making them more efficient and keeping them healthy. Digitalis also helps keep your circulatory system healthy, thus reducing pressure on the heart.

Digitalis Purpurea Medicinal Uses

Digitalis medicines are primarily consumed for the treatment of irregular heart rhythms. The medication improves the ability of the cells to absorb calcium, therefore stimulating and strengthening heartbeats. The molecules of the medicine bind themselves to the calcium and potassium receptors, therefore being able to control the amount of calcium absorbed by the heart. Calcium buildup in the cardiac muscles can strengthen the heartbeat. It also slows down the sinoarterial node signals, which control heart rhythm and improve arrhythmias. You can also use digitalis for heart failure and other heart conditions. However, always discuss its used with a doctor before you begin consuming it.

Drug Interactions

Digitalis is also known as foxglove digitalis purpurea, and it may have side effects and drug interactions. It is important to ensure that you consume the medications only on the prescription of a doctor. If you are consuming vitamins or other herbal supplements, avoid consuming digitalis.

Discuss the use of these other drugs and vitamins with your doctor. Some of the potential medications that may cause drug interactions with digitalis include:

  • Broad spectrum antibiotics
  • Other heart medications
  • Anti-fungal medications
  • Calcium blockers
  • Antianxiety medications
  • Antacids
  • Ulcer medications
  • Medications for colitis
  • Medications for lowering cholesterol

Digitalis Side Effects

The most common digitalis side effects include:

  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Hallucinations and disorientation
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Blurred eyesight or double vision
  • Loss of appetite
  • Breast enlargement in both men and women
  • Headaches
  • Skin rashes and hives
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dehydration
  • Diarrhea
  • Numbness in the body or tingling sensations in the limbs

Dosage

The dosage of digitalis completely depends on your heart condition. The doctor may prescribe you large or small dosages, depending on your personal heart condition. Medication is available both in solid as well as liquid forms, and you can consume it according to your doctor’s prescription. It is important to consume all your doses to maintain healthy heart functioning and circulation. If you miss a dose, consume double the dose the next time. Keep using the medication till your doctor asks you to stop or reduce the dosage.

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.


Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.
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