DIGOXIN IMMUNE FAB Meaning and
Definition
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Digoxin immune fab, also known as Digoxin-specific antibody fragments, is a medication used in the management of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside used in the treatment of heart failure and certain arrhythmias. However, excessive levels of digoxin in the body can lead to poisoning, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, arrhythmias, and even fatal cardiac arrest.
Digoxin immune fab is derived from sheep antibodies, specifically raised to bind and neutralize digoxin. It works by binding to digoxin molecules in circulation, forming a complex that is then eliminated through the kidneys. By directly binding to digoxin, immune fab helps to reduce the concentration of the cardiac glycoside in the body, effectively reversing its toxic effects.
The medication is administered intravenously and is typically used in cases of severe digoxin toxicity when standard treatments such as activated charcoal or gastric lavage are not effective or contraindicated. Digoxin immune fab has a high affinity for digoxin, meaning it readily binds to the toxic substance, making it an efficient and specific treatment option.
It is important to note that digoxin immune fab is not used as a routine treatment for digoxin toxicity but rather as a targeted intervention when other measures have failed or are unsuitable. It is usually administered under the supervision of healthcare professionals in a hospital setting due to the severity of digoxin toxicity and the potential for life-threatening complications.
