 Digitek (generically called Digoxin) is a form of Digitalis which is chemically derived from the foxglove plant that has been used as a heart medication since the eighteenth century. Digitalis medicines strengthen the force of the heartbeat by increasing the amount of calcium in the heart’s cells. The medication also controls arrhythmias by slowing the signals that start in the sinoatrial node. This causes a reduction in the number of signals that travel through the atrioventricular node, which results in fewer irregular heart beats.
The attorneys at the Singleton Law Firm are devoted to helping you receive compensation for the injuries you may have received while taking the drug Digitek.
Digitek is manufactured by Actavis Totowa and is sold under a “Bertek” label by Mylan Pharmaceuticals and a “UDL” label by UDL Laboratories. On April 25, 2008, a recall was placed on all Digitek tablets because a possibility existed that the tablets were double dosed. The FDA named it a Class 1 recall, meaning that the defective drug could cause serious health problems or death.
The double strength tablets can pose a serious risk of digitalis toxicity in patients, especially those suffering from renal failure. Digitalis toxicity is a complication of digitalis therapy and may be caused by an acute ingestion of the drug. It can occur from a single exposure or chronic overdose. Patients with heart failure are often given diuretics (an agent that increases the excretion of urine) along with Digitek, but the diuretics cause low potassium levels which make these patients more susceptible to the digitalis toxicity. It can also be caused by low levels of magnesium in the body, and reduced kidney function will cause the digitalis to accumulate in the body.
The following symptoms have been linked to digitalis toxicity: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, confusion, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, cardiac instability, irregular pulse, heart palpitations, and bradycardia (a slower than normal heart beat). Vision changes such as halos or light rings around objects, seeing light and bright colors, experiencing changes in color perception, blind spots in vision, and blurred vision can also occur. A decreased urine output, excessive nighttime urination, overall swelling, decreased consciousness, and difficulty breathing while lying down can also be experienced in patients suffering from digitalis toxicity. At worst, the toxicity will result in death.
The recall became official following numerous calls to Actavis regarding reports of digitalis toxicity complications, and based on assessments the company was first notified of the potential danger as early as 2006. An estimated 50 percent of the drug’s nationwide supply is said to be affected by this production error. The tablets affected were printed under the labels of “Bertek” and “UDL”.
Digitek, single dose with no flaws, may cause the following side effects: dizziness or lightheadedness, drowsiness, vision changes (blurred or yellow), rash, and/or an irregular heartbeat. The following symptoms may be indicative of severe problems: upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, swelling of feet or hands, unusual weight gain, or difficulty breathing.
If you or a loved one have experienced any of these side effects contact the Singleton Law Firm. The attorneys will work diligently and help you receive reimbursement for your Digitek injuries. At the Singleton Law Firm, our lawyers will earn your trust.
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