digitoxin /dij′itok″sin/ , a cardiac glycoside obtained from leaves of Digitalis purpurea. Digitoxin differs in many ways from digoxin, including having a far greater half-life and a different route of elimination. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of congestive heart failure and certain cardiac arrhythmias. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Ventricular fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: The most serious adverse reactions are cardiac arrhythmias and heart block, disorientation, and visual disturbances.
