Which lab test should be monitored to prevent complications in patients taking Digoxin?

Which lab test should be monitored to prevent complications in patients taking Digoxin?

• A. Calcium
• B. Sodium
• C. Potassium
• D. Magnesium

Answer: (C)

Monitoring potassium levels is crucial for patients taking digoxin due to the direct relationship between potassium and digoxin's pharmacological effects. Digoxin works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium ATPase pump, which affects cellular ion exchange and plays a significant role in cardiac contractility. Low potassium levels, or hypokalemia, can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity because the drug's cardiotoxic effects are heightened in a potassium-deficient state. This can lead to arrhythmias and other serious cardiac issues. On the other hand, high potassium levels may diminish digoxin's efficacy. Therefore, regular monitoring of potassium levels ensures that they remain within the desired range, reducing the risk of complications related to digoxin therapy and maintaining optimal heart function.

Monitoring potassium levels is crucial for patients taking digoxin due to the direct relationship between potassium and digoxin's pharmacological effects. Digoxin works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium ATPase pump, which affects cellular ion exchange and plays a significant role in cardiac contractility.

Low potassium levels, or hypokalemia, can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity because the drug's cardiotoxic effects are heightened in a potassium-deficient state. This can lead to arrhythmias and other serious cardiac issues. On the other hand, high potassium levels may diminish digoxin's efficacy.

Therefore, regular monitoring of potassium levels ensures that they remain within the desired range, reducing the risk of complications related to digoxin therapy and maintaining optimal heart function.