Digitoxin
Digitoxin is a cardiac glycoside derived from Digitalis species that was historically used to treat heart failure and certain irregular heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation. It increases the force of heart muscle contractions and slows heart rate by affecting electrolyte transport in cardiac cells. Due to its long half-life and narrow therapeutic index, it has been largely replaced by digoxin in modern clinical practice.
A legacy cardiac glycoside used for heart failure and atrial fibrillation, now rarely prescribed due to safer alternatives.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C01AA04
- RxNorm
- 3403
- Generic
- Digitoxin
- Class
- atc-c01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Historically used for systolic heart failure to improve symptoms and reduce hospitalizations, as well as rate control in atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. Its use has declined significantly in favor of other treatments.
Digitoxin inhibits the sodium-potassium ATPase pump in cardiac myocytes, leading to increased intracellular sodium, reduced calcium extrusion, and ultimately enhanced cardiac contractility. It also increases vagal tone, which helps slow heart rate in arrhythmias.
Has a narrow therapeutic window requiring careful blood level monitoring. Long half-life increases risk of drug accumulation and toxicity. Contraindicated in ventricular fibrillation, digitalis toxicity, and certain heart block conditions. Requires dose adjustment in kidney impairment. Largely considered a legacy medication in most healthcare systems.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy