Cancer Terms

Digitalin

Cancer Terms -> Drugs and Chemicals -> Pharmacologic Substance -> Agent Affecting Cardiovascular System -> Antiarrhythmic Agent -> Digitalin

Digitalin Definition

A glycoside compound, extracted from the leaves and seeds of the common foxglove, with anti-arrhythmic property. Digitalin inhibits the enzymatic activity of the sodium-potassium ATPase pump in cardiac tissue, thereby increasing intracellular sodium and calcium levels and providing a positive inotropic effect. This results in increased force of myocardial muscle contraction. This agent also has a vagal effect on the parasympathetic nervous system, and as such slows the ventricular heart rate as well as helps eliminate fluid from body tissues.

Digitalin Synonyms

Digitalin, DIGITALIN

Terms in Digitalin category



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