Acetyldigoxin

Acetyldigoxin

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

Acetyldigoxin, like other cardiac glycosides, works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium ATPase pump in the myocardium, the muscular tissue of the heart. This inhibition increases intracellular sodium levels, which in turn increases intracellular calcium levels via the sodium-calcium exchanger. The increased calcium levels lead to stronger heart contractions.

Clinical Use

Acetyldigoxin is used in the treatment of various heart conditions, including atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and heart failure. It is typically used when these conditions are not adequately controlled by other medications.

Side Effects

Potential side effects of acetyldigoxin include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and blurred vision. More serious side effects can include arrhythmia and other heart complications.

History

Acetyldigoxin was first isolated in the 19th century, and has been used in the treatment of heart conditions for over a hundred years. It is less commonly used today than other cardiac glycosides, such as digoxin, due to its potential for serious side effects.

See Also

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