Interactions between Dexamethasone and Lanoxicaps

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Abnormal Glucose Tolerance.

Corticosteroids can raise blood glucose level by antagonizing the action and suppressing the secretion of insulin, which results in inhibition of peripheral glucose uptake and increased gluconeogenesis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with diabetes mellitus, glucose intolerance, or a predisposition to hyperglycemia. Patients with diabetes mellitus should be monitored more closely during corticosteroid therapy, and their antidiabetic regimen adjusted accordingly.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Adrenal Tumor.

Corticosteroids mimic the effects of endogenous cortisol and aldosterone. Use of these agents may aggravate conditions of hyperadrenocorticalism in a dose-dependent manner.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Cardiomyopathy.

Digoxin can rarely precipitate vasoconstriction and may promote the development of cytokines; therefore, should be avoided in patients with myocarditis.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Cardiomyopathy.

Patients with heart failure associated with preserved left ventricular systolic function, such as in restrictive cardiomyopathy, constrictive pericarditis, amyloid heart disease and acute cor pulmonale, may be particularly susceptible to experience decrease cardiac output. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in such patients. Patients with idiopathic hypertrophic subaortic stenosis may have worsening of the outflow obstruction due to the inotropic effects of digoxin.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Cataract.

Prolonged use of corticosteroids may cause posterior subcapsular cataracts and elevated intraocular pressure, the latter of which may lead to glaucoma and/or damage to the optic nerves. Long-term therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of cataracts, glaucoma, or increased intraocular pressure.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Cirrhosis.

Corticosteroids may have enhanced effects on patients with cirrhosis due to decreased metabolism of these agents. Patients with cirrhosis should be monitored more closely for excessive cortisol effects. Dosage adjustments may be required in these patients.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Constrictive Pericarditis.

Patients with heart failure associated with preserved left ventricular systolic function, such as in restrictive cardiomyopathy, constrictive pericarditis, amyloid heart disease and acute cor pulmonale, may be particularly susceptible to experience decrease cardiac output. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in such patients. Patients with idiopathic hypertrophic subaortic stenosis may have worsening of the outflow obstruction due to the inotropic effects of digoxin.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Cor Pulmonale.

Patients with heart failure associated with preserved left ventricular systolic function, such as in restrictive cardiomyopathy, constrictive pericarditis, amyloid heart disease and acute cor pulmonale, may be particularly susceptible to experience decrease cardiac output. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in such patients. Patients with idiopathic hypertrophic subaortic stenosis may have worsening of the outflow obstruction due to the inotropic effects of digoxin.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Depression.

Corticosteroids may aggravate the symptoms of psychosis and emotional instability. Patients with these conditions should be monitored for increased or worsened symptoms during corticosteroid therapy.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Diabetes Mellitus.

Corticosteroids can raise blood glucose level by antagonizing the action and suppressing the secretion of insulin, which results in inhibition of peripheral glucose uptake and increased gluconeogenesis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with diabetes mellitus, glucose intolerance, or a predisposition to hyperglycemia. Patients with diabetes mellitus should be monitored more closely during corticosteroid therapy, and their antidiabetic regimen adjusted accordingly.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Diarrhea.

Potassium and/or magnesium depletion sensitizes the myocardium to digoxin. In patients with hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, digoxin toxicity may occur despite serum drug concentrations below 2.0 ng/mL. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to potassium and/or magnesium deficiency, including patients on diuretic therapy; those with primary or secondary aldosteronism (may have low potassium levels); those with severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting; those with malnutrition; and renal dialysis patients. Electrolyte imbalances should be corrected prior to initiation of treatment. Serum potassium and magnesium concentrations should be monitored during therapy.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Diverticulitis.

Corticosteroids may cause gastrointestinal perforation and hemorrhage, usually when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods. They may also mask symptoms of complications such as peritonitis or intraabdominal sepsis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with diverticulitis, nonspecific ulcerative colitis (if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess, or other pyogenic infection), or recent intestinal anastomoses.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Electrolyte Abnormalities.

Potassium and/or magnesium depletion sensitizes the myocardium to digoxin. In patients with hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, digoxin toxicity may occur despite serum drug concentrations below 2.0 ng/mL. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to potassium and/or magnesium deficiency, including patients on diuretic therapy; those with primary or secondary aldosteronism (may have low potassium levels); those with severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting; those with malnutrition; and renal dialysis patients. Electrolyte imbalances should be corrected prior to initiation of treatment. Serum potassium and magnesium concentrations should be monitored during therapy.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Electrolyte Abnormalities.

Corticosteroids can cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and fluid retention. These mineralocorticoid effects are most significant with fludrocortisone, followed by hydrocortisone and cortisone, then by prednisone and prednisolone. The remaining corticosteroids, betamethasone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone, have little mineralocorticoid activities. However, large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer than brief periods. All corticosteroids also increase excretion of calcium and can cause hypocalcemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting electrolyte disturbances. Caution is also advised when treating patients with seizure disorders, since electrolyte disturbances may trigger seizure activity.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Fluid Retention.

Corticosteroids may cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, fluid retention, and elevation in blood pressure. Large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer periods. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, congestive heart failure, and/or renal dysfunction. Dietary sodium restriction and potassium supplementation may be advisable.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Glaucoma/Intraocular Hypertension.

Prolonged use of corticosteroids may cause posterior subcapsular cataracts and elevated intraocular pressure, the latter of which may lead to glaucoma and/or damage to the optic nerves. Long-term therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of cataracts, glaucoma, or increased intraocular pressure.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Heart Attack.

The use of corticosteroids may be associated with left ventricular free-wall rupture in patients who have had a recent myocardial infarction. Pharmacologic dosages of corticosteroids should be administered with great caution in such patients.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a moderate potential interaction with Heart Attack.

The use of inotropic drugs in some patients with acute myocardial infarction may lead to increases in myocardial oxygen demand and lead to ischemia. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in these patients.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Heart Block.

Digoxin slows sinoatrial and AV conduction, prolonging the PR interval. When treated with digoxin, patients with preexisting sinus node disease may develop severe sinus bradycardia or sinoatrial block, and patients with incomplete AV block may progress to advanced or complete heart block. In such patients, consideration should be given to the insertion of a pacemaker prior to initiating treatment with digoxin. Digoxin may be administered to patients with complete, stable AV block who have congestive heart failure, provided the block was not induced by cardiac glycosides.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Heart Failure.

Corticosteroids may cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, fluid retention, and elevation in blood pressure. Large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer periods. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, congestive heart failure, and/or renal dysfunction. Dietary sodium restriction and potassium supplementation may be advisable.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Hemodialysis.

Potassium and/or magnesium depletion sensitizes the myocardium to digoxin. In patients with hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, digoxin toxicity may occur despite serum drug concentrations below 2.0 ng/mL. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to potassium and/or magnesium deficiency, including patients on diuretic therapy; those with primary or secondary aldosteronism (may have low potassium levels); those with severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting; those with malnutrition; and renal dialysis patients. Electrolyte imbalances should be corrected prior to initiation of treatment. Serum potassium and magnesium concentrations should be monitored during therapy.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Herpetic Keratitis.

Pharmacologic dosages of corticosteroids should be used cautiously in patients with ocular herpes simplex because of the risk of corneal perforation. Corticosteroids are not recommended for patients with active ocular herpes simplex.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with High Blood Pressure.

Corticosteroids may cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, fluid retention, and elevation in blood pressure. Large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer periods. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, congestive heart failure, and/or renal dysfunction. Dietary sodium restriction and potassium supplementation may be advisable.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with High Cholesterol.

Corticosteroids may elevate serum triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels if used for longer than brief periods. Patients with preexisting hyperlipidemia may require closer monitoring during prolonged corticosteroid therapy, and adjustments made accordingly in their lipid-lowering regimen.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with History, Peptic Ulcer.

Corticosteroids may cause peptic ulcer disease and gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage, usually when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods. However, even conventional dosages may aggravate symptoms in patients with a history of peptic ulcers. Delayed healing of ulcers has also been reported. Therapy with corticosteroids should be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with active or latent peptic ulcers or other risk factors for GI bleeding. Some clinicians recommend the use of prophylactic antacids or H2-antagonists between meals when large doses of corticosteroids are necessary.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with History, Thrombotic/Thromboembolic Disorder.

Corticosteroids may increase blood coagulability and have rarely been associated with the development of intravascular thrombosis, thromboembolism, and thrombophlebitis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients who have or may be predisposed to thrombotic or thromboembolic disorders.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with History, Tuberculosis.

In patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity, the use of pharmacologic dosages of corticosteroids may cause a reactivation of the disease. Close monitoring for signs and symptoms of tuberculosis is recommended if corticosteroid therapy is administered to patients with a history of tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity. During prolonged corticosteroid therapy, tuberculosis chemoprophylaxis may be considered.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperadrenocorticism.

Corticosteroids mimic the effects of endogenous cortisol and aldosterone. Use of these agents may aggravate conditions of hyperadrenocorticalism in a dose-dependent manner.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Hyperaldosteronism.

Potassium and/or magnesium depletion sensitizes the myocardium to digoxin. In patients with hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, digoxin toxicity may occur despite serum drug concentrations below 2.0 ng/mL. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to potassium and/or magnesium deficiency, including patients on diuretic therapy; those with primary or secondary aldosteronism (may have low potassium levels); those with severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting; those with malnutrition; and renal dialysis patients. Electrolyte imbalances should be corrected prior to initiation of treatment. Serum potassium and magnesium concentrations should be monitored during therapy.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperaldosteronism.

Corticosteroids mimic the effects of endogenous cortisol and aldosterone. Use of these agents may aggravate conditions of hyperadrenocorticalism in a dose-dependent manner.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Hypercalcemia.

Calcium and digoxin have additive inotropic effects. Therefore, hypercalcemia from any cause will predispose patients to digoxin toxicity and serious arrhythmias. Hypercalcemia should be corrected prior to initiating treatment with digoxin, and serum calcium levels should be monitored during therapy.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Hypernatremia.

Corticosteroids can cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and fluid retention. These mineralocorticoid effects are most significant with fludrocortisone, followed by hydrocortisone and cortisone, then by prednisone and prednisolone. The remaining corticosteroids, betamethasone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone, have little mineralocorticoid activities. However, large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer than brief periods. All corticosteroids also increase excretion of calcium and can cause hypocalcemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting electrolyte disturbances. Caution is also advised when treating patients with seizure disorders, since electrolyte disturbances may trigger seizure activity.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperthyroidism.

Heart failure and/or atrial arrhythmias resulting from hypermetabolic or hyperdynamic states such as hyperthyroidism, hypoxia, or arteriovenous shunt are best managed by treating the underlying condition. Atrial arrhythmias associated with hypermetabolic states are particularly refractory to digoxin, possibly due to altered pharmacokinetics. Specifically, the apparent volume of distribution and renal elimination of the drug may be increased, resulting in lower serum concentrations. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in patients with hyperthyroidism. Serum digoxin levels should be monitored regularly and dosage adjustments may be required secondary to changes in their thyroid condition.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Hypocalcemia.

Hypocalcemia can nullify the effects of digoxin. The drug may be ineffective in hypocalcemic patients until serum calcium levels are restored to normal. Restore serum calcium levels prior to initiating therapy with digoxin to obtain maximum results when using digoxin.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Hypocalcemia.

Corticosteroids can cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and fluid retention. These mineralocorticoid effects are most significant with fludrocortisone, followed by hydrocortisone and cortisone, then by prednisone and prednisolone. The remaining corticosteroids, betamethasone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone, have little mineralocorticoid activities. However, large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer than brief periods. All corticosteroids also increase excretion of calcium and can cause hypocalcemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting electrolyte disturbances. Caution is also advised when treating patients with seizure disorders, since electrolyte disturbances may trigger seizure activity.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Hypokalemia.

Potassium and/or magnesium depletion sensitizes the myocardium to digoxin. In patients with hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, digoxin toxicity may occur despite serum drug concentrations below 2.0 ng/mL. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to potassium and/or magnesium deficiency, including patients on diuretic therapy; those with primary or secondary aldosteronism (may have low potassium levels); those with severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting; those with malnutrition; and renal dialysis patients. Electrolyte imbalances should be corrected prior to initiation of treatment. Serum potassium and magnesium concentrations should be monitored during therapy.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Hypokalemia.

Corticosteroids can cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and fluid retention. These mineralocorticoid effects are most significant with fludrocortisone, followed by hydrocortisone and cortisone, then by prednisone and prednisolone. The remaining corticosteroids, betamethasone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone, have little mineralocorticoid activities. However, large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer than brief periods. All corticosteroids also increase excretion of calcium and can cause hypocalcemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting electrolyte disturbances. Caution is also advised when treating patients with seizure disorders, since electrolyte disturbances may trigger seizure activity.

dexAMETHasone has a major potential interaction with Infection.

The immunosuppressant and anti-inflammatory effects of corticosteroids, particularly at higher dosages, may reduce resistance to infectious agents, increase the risk of disseminated infections, mask symptoms of infection, and reactivate or exacerbate latent/resolved infections; fatal cases have been reported. Avoid use of corticosteroids in patients with cerebral malaria. Screen patients for active (or history of) infection with tuberculosis, hepatitis, varicella, measles, and amebiasis, especially prior to prolonged treatment. Closely monitor for reactivation of latent infections; chemoprophylaxis may be required. In general, corticosteroids should not be used in patients with active infections, especially systemic fungal infections, unless medically necessary to control drug reactions. However, for corticosteroid-dependent patients who develop a severe or life-threatening infection, continuation of corticosteroid therapy with at least physiologic replacement dosages should be considered, since these patients may have secondary adrenocortical insufficiency. Removal of external steroid during periods of stress may be detrimental to these patients.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Intestinal Anastomoses.

Corticosteroids may cause gastrointestinal perforation and hemorrhage, usually when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods. They may also mask symptoms of complications such as peritonitis or intraabdominal sepsis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with diverticulitis, nonspecific ulcerative colitis (if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess, or other pyogenic infection), or recent intestinal anastomoses.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.

Corticosteroids are primarily metabolized by the liver and may have enhanced effects in patients with liver disease. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in these patients.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Magnesium Imbalance.

Potassium and/or magnesium depletion sensitizes the myocardium to digoxin. In patients with hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, digoxin toxicity may occur despite serum drug concentrations below 2.0 ng/mL. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to potassium and/or magnesium deficiency, including patients on diuretic therapy; those with primary or secondary aldosteronism (may have low potassium levels); those with severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting; those with malnutrition; and renal dialysis patients. Electrolyte imbalances should be corrected prior to initiation of treatment. Serum potassium and magnesium concentrations should be monitored during therapy.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Malnourishment.

Potassium and/or magnesium depletion sensitizes the myocardium to digoxin. In patients with hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, digoxin toxicity may occur despite serum drug concentrations below 2.0 ng/mL. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to potassium and/or magnesium deficiency, including patients on diuretic therapy; those with primary or secondary aldosteronism (may have low potassium levels); those with severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting; those with malnutrition; and renal dialysis patients. Electrolyte imbalances should be corrected prior to initiation of treatment. Serum potassium and magnesium concentrations should be monitored during therapy.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Myasthenia Gravis.

Although corticosteroids are commonly used in the treatment of myasthenia gravis to increase muscle strength, these agents should nevertheless be administered with caution in such setting. Patients should be treated in an intensive care unit and receive respiratory support, since muscle strength may markedly decrease initially, particularly with high dosages. Preferably, therapy should begin with relatively low dosages (15 to 25 mg/day of prednisone or equivalent) and be increased stepwise as tolerated (approximately 5 mg/day of prednisone or equivalent at 2- to 3-day intervals until marked clinical improvement or a dosage of 50 mg/day is reached). Improvement may be delayed and gradual. Thus, it is important not to discontinue therapy prematurely.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Myoneural Disorder.

Toxic myopathy has been observed with the chronic use or the administration of large doses of corticosteroids, often in patients with disorders of neuromuscular transmission such as myasthenia gravis or in patients receiving neuromuscular blocking agents. Fluorinated corticosteroids such as betamethasone, dexamethasone, and triamcinolone appear to cause more severe muscle atrophy and weakness than the nonfluorinated agents. Moreover, multiple-daily doses are more toxic than once-daily or, preferably, alternate-day morning doses. Steroid myopathy is generalized and sometimes accompanied by respiratory weakness and dyspnea. In some cases, it has resulted in quadriparesis. Elevations of creatine kinase (CK) may also occur, albeit infrequently. After withdrawal of corticosteroid therapy, recovery may be slow and incomplete. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting myopathy or myoneural disorders since these conditions may confound the diagnosis of steroid-induced myopathy. The presence of a normal serum CK level, minimal/no changes of myopathy on electromyography, and type 2 muscle fiber atrophy on biopsy are helpful in suggesting steroid-induced weakness. If steroid myopathy is suspected, a dosage reduction or discontinuation of the steroid should be considered.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Myopathy.

Toxic myopathy has been observed with the chronic use or the administration of large doses of corticosteroids, often in patients with disorders of neuromuscular transmission such as myasthenia gravis or in patients receiving neuromuscular blocking agents. Fluorinated corticosteroids such as betamethasone, dexamethasone, and triamcinolone appear to cause more severe muscle atrophy and weakness than the nonfluorinated agents. Moreover, multiple-daily doses are more toxic than once-daily or, preferably, alternate-day morning doses. Steroid myopathy is generalized and sometimes accompanied by respiratory weakness and dyspnea. In some cases, it has resulted in quadriparesis. Elevations of creatine kinase (CK) may also occur, albeit infrequently. After withdrawal of corticosteroid therapy, recovery may be slow and incomplete. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting myopathy or myoneural disorders since these conditions may confound the diagnosis of steroid-induced myopathy. The presence of a normal serum CK level, minimal/no changes of myopathy on electromyography, and type 2 muscle fiber atrophy on biopsy are helpful in suggesting steroid-induced weakness. If steroid myopathy is suspected, a dosage reduction or discontinuation of the steroid should be considered.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Osteoporosis.

Corticosteroids reduce osteoblastic function and inhibit the absorption of intestinal calcium, which can result in bone resorption and bone loss during prolonged therapy. In addition, bone matrix may be affected by the protein-catabolic effects of corticosteroids, especially when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods, leading to aseptic necrosis and fractures. Long-term or high-dose corticosteroid therapy should be administered cautiously and only if necessary in patients with or at risk for osteoporosis. Adverse skeletal effects may be minimized by alternate-day or intermittent administration. Any patient receiving prolonged therapy with the equivalent of 7.5 mg prednisone/day or more are at risk for glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis and should be managed according to The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) guidelines.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Peptic Ulcer.

Corticosteroids may cause peptic ulcer disease and gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage, usually when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods. However, even conventional dosages may aggravate symptoms in patients with a history of peptic ulcers. Delayed healing of ulcers has also been reported. Therapy with corticosteroids should be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with active or latent peptic ulcers or other risk factors for GI bleeding. Some clinicians recommend the use of prophylactic antacids or H2-antagonists between meals when large doses of corticosteroids are necessary.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Post MI Syndrome.

The use of corticosteroids may be associated with left ventricular free-wall rupture in patients who have had a recent myocardial infarction. Pharmacologic dosages of corticosteroids should be administered with great caution in such patients.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Preexcitation Syndrome.

Digoxin may enhance accessory pathway conduction in conditions such as the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. Patients with Wolf-Parkinson-White syndrome that presents atrial fibrillation are at higher risk for ventricular fibrillation. Treatment with digoxin should be used with caution in these patients.

dexAMETHasone has a major potential interaction with Prematurity/Underweight in Infancy.

The use of certain parenteral formulations of dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone and triamcinolone is considered by the drug manufacturers to be contraindicated in neonates, particularly premature infants and infants of low birth weight. Some formulations of these drugs contain benzyl alcohol which, when used in bacteriostatic saline intravascular flush and endotracheal tube lavage solutions, has been associated with fatalities and severe respiratory and metabolic complications in low-birth-weight premature infants. However, many experts feel that, in the absence of benzyl alcohol-free equivalents, the amount of the preservative present in these formulations should not necessarily preclude their use if they are clearly indicated. The American Academy of Pediatrics considers benzyl alcohol in low doses (such as when used as a preservative in some medications) to be safe for newborns. Continuous infusions of high dosages of medications containing benzyl alcohol may, however, cause toxicity and should be avoided if possible.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Psychosis.

Corticosteroids may aggravate the symptoms of psychosis and emotional instability. Patients with these conditions should be monitored for increased or worsened symptoms during corticosteroid therapy.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Digoxin is primarily eliminated by the kidney. Patients with renal impairment may be at increased risk for digoxin toxicity, including ventricular arrhythmias and AV conduction disturbances, due to decreased drug clearance. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in patients with impaired renal function. Dosage adjustments should be made according to product package labeling and patient attributes such as age, ideal body weight, and other concomitant disease states and medication usage. Dosage increments should be made very gradually, since the elimination half-life may be prolonged in these patients and a longer period of time is required to establish steady-state serum concentrations than normal. These patients should be monitored closely for manifestations of toxicity, and dosages further adjusted as necessary. If toxicity occurs, clinicians should be aware that the adverse effects may also be prolonged.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Corticosteroids may cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, fluid retention, and elevation in blood pressure. Large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer periods. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, congestive heart failure, and/or renal dysfunction. Dietary sodium restriction and potassium supplementation may be advisable.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Seizures.

Corticosteroids can cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and fluid retention. These mineralocorticoid effects are most significant with fludrocortisone, followed by hydrocortisone and cortisone, then by prednisone and prednisolone. The remaining corticosteroids, betamethasone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone, have little mineralocorticoid activities. However, large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer than brief periods. All corticosteroids also increase excretion of calcium and can cause hypocalcemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting electrolyte disturbances. Caution is also advised when treating patients with seizure disorders, since electrolyte disturbances may trigger seizure activity.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Sinus Node Dysfunction.

Digoxin slows sinoatrial and AV conduction, prolonging the PR interval. When treated with digoxin, patients with preexisting sinus node disease may develop severe sinus bradycardia or sinoatrial block, and patients with incomplete AV block may progress to advanced or complete heart block. In such patients, consideration should be given to the insertion of a pacemaker prior to initiating treatment with digoxin. Digoxin may be administered to patients with complete, stable AV block who have congestive heart failure, provided the block was not induced by cardiac glycosides.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Strongyloidiasis.

Unlike most helminths, Strongyloides stercoralis has the ability to replicate in the human host. In patients with strongyloidiasis, the use of pharmacologic or immunosuppressive dosages of corticosteroids may result in Strongyloides hyperinfection and dissemination with widespread larval migration, often accompanied by severe enterocolitis and potentially fatal gram-negative septicemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered with extreme caution, if at all, in these patients. For patients on corticosteroids who develop known or suspected Strongyloides infestation, withdrawal of corticosteroids or reduction of the dose of corticosteroids is recommended.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Systemic Sclerosis.

In patients with scleroderma, corticosteroids may precipitate renal crisis with malignant hypertension, possibly via steroid-induced increases in renin substrate and angiotensin II levels and decreases in vasodilator prostaglandin production. Renal failure may ensue. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with scleroderma. In addition, they should be limited to short-term use.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Thrombotic/Thromboembolic Disorder.

Corticosteroids may increase blood coagulability and have rarely been associated with the development of intravascular thrombosis, thromboembolism, and thrombophlebitis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients who have or may be predisposed to thrombotic or thromboembolic disorders.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Tuberculosis, Latent.

In patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity, the use of pharmacologic dosages of corticosteroids may cause a reactivation of the disease. Close monitoring for signs and symptoms of tuberculosis is recommended if corticosteroid therapy is administered to patients with a history of tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity. During prolonged corticosteroid therapy, tuberculosis chemoprophylaxis may be considered.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Ulcerative Colitis.

Corticosteroids may cause gastrointestinal perforation and hemorrhage, usually when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods. They may also mask symptoms of complications such as peritonitis or intraabdominal sepsis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with diverticulitis, nonspecific ulcerative colitis (if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess, or other pyogenic infection), or recent intestinal anastomoses.

dexAMETHasone has a moderate potential interaction with Underactive Thyroid.

Corticosteroids may have enhanced effects in hypothyroidism due to decreased metabolism of these agents. Patients with hypothyroidism should be monitored more closely for excessive cortisol effects. Dosage adjustments may be required secondary to changes in their thyroid condition.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a moderate potential interaction with Underactive Thyroid.

Hypothyroidism may reduce the requirements for digoxin due to decreased volume of distribution and plasma clearance of the drug. Therapy with digoxin should be initiated at lower dosages in patients with hypothyroidism to avoid toxicity. Serum digoxin levels should be monitored regularly and dosage adjustments may be required secondary to changes in thyroid condition.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Ventricular Arrhythmia.

The use of digoxin is contraindicated in patients with ventricular fibrillation. Digoxin toxicity is associated with adverse cardiac effects, including ventricular arrhythmias, which are most commonly seen in chronic toxicity. Digoxin-induced ventricular tachycardia is associated with a high mortality rate, since ventricular fibrillation or asystole may result. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in patients with frequent ventricular premature contractions or ventricular tachycardia, especially if these arrhythmias are not caused by heart failure.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a moderate potential interaction with Vitamin B1 Deficiency.

Patients with beri beri heart disease may fail to respond adequately to digoxin if the underlying thiamine deficiency is not treated concomitantly.

The digoxin in Lanoxicaps has a major potential interaction with Vomiting.

Potassium and/or magnesium depletion sensitizes the myocardium to digoxin. In patients with hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, digoxin toxicity may occur despite serum drug concentrations below 2.0 ng/mL. Therapy with digoxin should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to potassium and/or magnesium deficiency, including patients on diuretic therapy; those with primary or secondary aldosteronism (may have low potassium levels); those with severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting; those with malnutrition; and renal dialysis patients. Electrolyte imbalances should be corrected prior to initiation of treatment. Serum potassium and magnesium concentrations should be monitored during therapy.