Digitek - Atrial Fibrillation - Atrial Flutter

Digitek is prescribed for treating heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms. In recent years its effectiveness has come under question. Many studies have shown that digoxin increases the death rate in women.

Digitek Recall- Some Questions About Its Effectiveness
Digitek is a drug that is used to treat heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms. This medication also goes by the name of Digoxin. Digoxin is chemically derived from the foxglove plant. This plant has been used for centuries to treat heart related ailments. The drug is usually administered orally but in emergency situations it is often given by IV injection.

In Question
Over the years the effectiveness of Digitek has come under question. Today, it is no longer the first choice for treating congestive heart failure. Studies have shown that digoxin has been ineffective in decreasing the mortality rate in congestive heart failure. Today, doctors usually prescribe the medication for treating atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter with rapid ventricular response.

Women At Higher Risk
Studies have also been conducted to see whether women and men react differently to Digitek. One such study was done at Yale University by Dr. Harlan Krumholz. The study showed that the death rate of women who took digoxin was 33%. This has turned out to be higher than the death rate amongst women who took a dummy pill (29%). The study came with a startling conclusion that the drug increased the risk of death in women by 23%.

Still another study has shown that women are at higher risk of digoxin intoxication than men. Moreover, higher dose of Digitek is also associated with serious side effects. In fact, the recent recall by Actavis Totowa was issued because tablets with double appropriate thickness were feared to have been released in the market. Digitalis toxicity can cause vomiting, dizziness, nausea, low blood pressure, bradycardia, cardiac instability, and confusion. High dose of this drug is especially harmful for patients of renal failure. Several cases of injuries and illness have been reported and the company is facing several lawsuits.