PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF CARDIAC ARRHYTHMIAS WITH THE USE OF DIGOXIN

Abstract

This research aims to correlate scientific data on the pharmacological effect of digoxin in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias, addressing routes of administration, therapeutic effects, side effects, and impacts on quality of life. It is an integrative literature review conducted in six stages, with searches in the Virtual Health Library (VHL), encompassing the LILACS, MEDLINE, and BDENF databases. The PICo strategy was used to formulate the guiding question. The time frame included articles published between 2010 and 2025. Among the results, it was found that digoxin, a drug of botanical origin, stands out for its effectiveness in controlling the ventricular response, especially in atrial fibrillation. Its pharmacokinetics reveal better absorption via the oral route, although the intravenous route is preferred for rapid digitalization. The mechanism of action involves increasing vagal tone and reducing conduction in the atrioventricular node. However, its narrow therapeutic window requires rigorous vigilance against digitalis toxicity. Nursing care is crucial in identifying clinical signs and providing health education for the safe management of treatment. It is concluded that digoxin remains a relevant therapy in cardiology. The nurse plays a fundamental role in the early recognition of arrhythmias and signs of toxicity, ensuring individualized care and patient safety.