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Metabolism of Digoxin

Digoxin is a prescription medicine used in the treatment of congestive heart failure and is metabolized in stomach and upper part of the small intestine. It helps in increasing the force of contraction of the heart.

  1. Absorption

    • The absorption rate of digoxin is approximately 90 percent when it is taken in capsular or enteric coated tablet form, according to the Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics. The absorption rate reduces to 70 percent to 80 percent if taken in uncoated (no capsule) form. The rate of absorption decreases when it is taken with food.

    Distribution

    • Digoxin is mostly stored in the skeletal tissues and therefore the dosage is based on lean body mass. Digoxin is also known to cross placenta and therefore it is not recommended in pregnancy unless strongly advised.

    Elimination

    • Digoxin is eliminated from the body by kidneys. It can remain in the body for 36 to 48 hours in individuals with normal kidney function but may take three to five days in people with abnormal kidney functioning, according to The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics.

    Considerations

    • Digoxin administration should be carefully done in patients on peritoneal or hemodialysis because it is not easily removed from the body as large concentrations are present in tissues and not blood.

    Preparations

    • Digoxin can be given as oral, intravenous or intramuscular injections. It is better absorbed in the small intestine than the stomach. Intravenous injections are given when oral preparations cannot be given. Intramuscular injections are not that well absorbed and cause local discomfort and hence are not advised.

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