Evaluation of digoxin dosing in two Egyptian hospitals a pilot study
- Citation:
- Farid, S. F., M. M. Abbassia, N. A. Sabrya, and S. A. Elkhaleq, "Evaluation of digoxin dosing in two Egyptian hospitals a pilot study", Australian Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences, vol. 3, issue 3, pp. 1838 - 1841, 2009.
Abstract:
Introduction: Digoxin is one of the digitalis cardiac glycosides indicated in heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Due to individual variability in digoxin pharmacokinetics, digoxin doses need to be calculated based on patient's weight, renal function and indication. Furthermore, therapeutic drug monitoring of digoxin is highly recommended. However, it is common practice among cardiologists in Egypt to prescribe one and the same dose and dosing regimen to all patients for both heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Objective: The objective of this study is to predict digoxin plasma concentrations at digoxin steady state to assess the appropriateness of digoxin dosing. Methods: Digoxin plasma concentrations were calculated for 14 patients using prescribed digoxin doses and patient specific data and compared to target digoxin concentrations. Results: Patients had generally digoxin levels within the recommended therapeutic levels not taking into consideration the interrupted dosing schedule followed in Egyptian hospitals which might lead to sub-therapeutic levels. However, patients with reduced renal function had predicted levels higher than the recommended dosing range. Conclusion: Prescribing policy for digoxin in Egypt needs to be re-evaluated. Correct doses can easily be calculated using simple pharmacokinetic equations or computer programs to achieve therapeutic digoxin levels for different indications. The role of therapeutic drug monitoring should also be emphasized to ensure optimum therapeutic outcome and safety. © 2009, INSInet Publication.
Notes:
Cited By :1Export Date: 19 July 2022