Lanoxin Uses

• Lanoxin is a prescription drug. Jeffrey Coolidge/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Digoxin, a drug used to treat specific heart conditions and abnormalities, is derived from the foxglove plant, Digitalis lanata. Marketed under various brand names, Lanoxin is the brand name of the drug manufactured by pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline, with corporate headquarters in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. Lanoxin is indicated for use in the treatment of patients suffering from certain types of arrhythmia -- i.e., irregular heartbeat -- and cardiac insufficiency, especially as a symptom of congestive heart failure. A powerful drug, digoxin under any brand name should only be taken under prescription.

Arrhythmia

• A persistently irregular or abnormal heartbeat is known as an arrhythmia. Healthy individuals may project an arrhythmic condition from time to time. However, in persons with persistent and chronic arrhythmia -- especially those with underlying medical conditions -- prescription drugs may be prescribed by a qualified medical professional. Lanoxin is commonly recommended in many instances of arrhythmia. The drug works by strengthening heart muscle contractions while simultaneously slowing the rhythm of the heart. A more regular, yet more forceful heartbeat permits the heart more rest while providing the body with an increased blood flow.

Cardiac Insufficiency

• In certain medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, the heart does not pump enough blood throughout the body. Patients suffering from congestive heart failure may display symptoms such as shortness of breath and edema, or swelling, as fluid builds up, especially in the feet, ankles, legs, or abdomen. Lanoxin may be prescribed to assist the heart in contracting more forcefully, thereby increasing blood flow and reducing fluid retention. According to Lanoxin drug manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline, two separate studies conducted to analyze the effects of digoxin showed that ongoing "treatment with Lanoxin reduced the risk of developing worsening heart failure."

With a Pacemaker

• Lanoxin may be indicated in certain instances for patients with a pacemaker, a small battery-operated device implanted into the body that delivers electrical impulses to the heart to maintain a regular rhythm. Working in conjunction with a pacemaker, Lanoxin promotes and maintains a stronger and more controlled heartbeat, thereby enabling the pacemaker to work more efficiently.

Angina

• Lanoxin may be prescribed for patients suffering from angina, which chest pain caused by a decreased blood flow to the heart. Depending on the underlying medical condition causing the angina, slowing and relaxing the heart may be needed to provide relief to the patient. In such cases, Lanoxin may be utilized along with other medications to treat the symptoms.