INOTROPES

The word “inotrope” refers to the strength of the heart muscle’s pumping action, or contractions.

Generic (and Brand) names

All medications are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a specific patient group or condition. Consult your doctor for which medications are appropriate for you.

• Digoxin (Digitex, Lanoxicaps, Lanoxin)

What they’re used for

• To improve symptoms of heart failure and related conditions, such as low ejection fraction (EF)
• To slow the heart rate in response to atrial fibrillation (fast rhythm in the heart’s upper chambers)

How they work

The term ‘inotrope’ describes the strength and force of the heartbeat. Taking inotropic medications can:

• Make the heart beat more strongly and efficiently
• Help slow and control the heart rate for certain arrhythmais