Digoxin is primarily used to treat heart failure and certain types of abnormal heart rhythms, specifically atrial fibrillation (AF) and other arrhythmias. In heart failure, it helps the heart beat more strongly and pump blood more efficiently, thus improving symptoms like swelling and breathlessness[1][4][5][6]. In atrial fibrillation and other supraventricular arrhythmias, digoxin is used to help control the heart rate and restore a more regular rhythm[2][3][6].
Digoxin is typically prescribed alongside other heart medications, such as diuretics and ACE inhibitors, especially when standard treatments alone are not adequately controlling symptoms[2][3][6]. Off-label, digoxin may be used in conditions like other supraventricular tachycardias, some cases of fetal tachycardia, and rarely in pulmonary hypertension, but these uses require specialist recommendation[3].
In summary, digoxin is a prescription medication most commonly used in:
- Heart failure—to increase heart contractility and manage symptoms.
- Atrial fibrillation—to control heart rate and rhythm.
- Other arrhythmias—occasionally, under specialist guidance.