Α-Acetyldigoxin

Α-Acetyldigoxin is a cardiac glycoside, a type of drug that can increase the force of heart contractions, control heart rate, and alleviate symptoms of heart failure. It is derived from the foxglove plant, similar to its more commonly known relative, digoxin.

Pharmacology

Α-Acetyldigoxin works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium ATPase pump in the myocardial (heart muscle) cells. This inhibition leads to an increase in intracellular sodium levels, which then causes an increase in intracellular calcium levels via the sodium-calcium exchange pump. The increased calcium levels result in stronger heart contractions.

Clinical Use

Α-Acetyldigoxin is used in the treatment of various heart conditions, including atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and heart failure. It is particularly useful in patients with heart failure who also have atrial fibrillation, as it can control the rapid heart rate often seen in these patients.

Side Effects

Like other cardiac glycosides, Α-Acetyldigoxin has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning there is a small difference between therapeutic and toxic doses. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, visual disturbances, and cardiac arrhythmias. In severe cases, it can cause cardiac arrest.

Drug Interactions

Α-Acetyldigoxin can interact with a number of other medications, including calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, and diuretics. These interactions can increase the risk of toxicity.

See Also

• Cardiac glycoside
• Digoxin
• Heart failure
• Atrial fibrillation
• Atrial flutter