What is the therapeutic range for Digitalis?

What is the therapeutic range for Digitalis?

• A. 0.5-1.5
• B. 1.0-2.0
• C. 0.8-2.5
• D. 0.4-1.0

Answer: (A)

The therapeutic range for Digitalis, also known as digoxin, is recognized as being between 0.5 to 2.0 ng/mL, with many sources specifying a target of 0.5-1.5 ng/mL for most patients. Staying within this range is critical as it helps to ensure the medication is effective without causing toxicity. Digitalis primarily works by increasing the strength of the heart's contractions and controlling heart rate, particularly in conditions like heart failure and atrial fibrillation. When digoxin levels exceed this therapeutic range, the risk of digitalis toxicity increases, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, and potentially serious cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, thorough monitoring of serum digoxin levels is essential for patient safety and effective treatment. While the answer provided reflects a common understanding of the therapeutic range, it's important to note that some more recent guidelines might allow for slight variations in the upper limit depending on patient status and specific clinical scenarios.

The therapeutic range for Digitalis, also known as digoxin, is recognized as being between 0.5 to 2.0 ng/mL, with many sources specifying a target of 0.5-1.5 ng/mL for most patients. Staying within this range is critical as it helps to ensure the medication is effective without causing toxicity. Digitalis primarily works by increasing the strength of the heart's contractions and controlling heart rate, particularly in conditions like heart failure and atrial fibrillation.

When digoxin levels exceed this therapeutic range, the risk of digitalis toxicity increases, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, and potentially serious cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, thorough monitoring of serum digoxin levels is essential for patient safety and effective treatment. While the answer provided reflects a common understanding of the therapeutic range, it's important to note that some more recent guidelines might allow for slight variations in the upper limit depending on patient status and specific clinical scenarios.