Digoxin immune fab

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Digoxin immune fab is an antibody fragment used as an antidote for digoxin toxicity. It is derived from the immunoglobulin fraction of sheep that have been immunized with a digoxin derivative. The primary function of digoxin immune fab is to bind to digoxin, thereby neutralizing its effects and facilitating its excretion from the body.

Mechanism of Action

Digoxin immune fab works by binding to free digoxin in the bloodstream. This binding forms a complex that is too large to cross cell membranes, effectively reducing the amount of digoxin available to bind to its target, the sodium-potassium ATPase pump. The digoxin-immune fab complex is then excreted by the kidneys.

Indications

Digoxin immune fab is indicated for the treatment of life-threatening digoxin toxicity or overdose. This includes cases of severe arrhythmias, hyperkalemia, and other symptoms of digoxin poisoning.

Administration

The administration of digoxin immune fab is typically intravenous. The dosage is calculated based on the amount of digoxin ingested or the serum digoxin concentration. The treatment is usually given in a hospital setting under close medical supervision.

Side Effects

Common side effects of digoxin immune fab include hypokalemia, allergic reactions, and worsening of heart failure symptoms. Rarely, patients may experience anaphylaxis or serum sickness.

Pharmacokinetics

After administration, digoxin immune fab has a rapid onset of action, with effects typically seen within 30 minutes to 1 hour. The half-life of the digoxin-immune fab complex is approximately 15 to 20 hours, and it is primarily excreted by the kidneys.

History

Digoxin immune fab was first approved for use in the United States in the early 1980s. It has since become a critical component in the management of digoxin toxicity.

See Also

• Digoxin
• Cardiac glycoside
• Antibody
• Toxicology