Which of the following is a common side effect of digoxin?

Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside widely used to treat conditions like heart failure and atrial fibrillation. One important aspect to understand regarding digoxin is its effect on potassium levels. It increases the sodium-potassium ATPase activity, which can lead to potassium depletion in the body, resulting in hypokalemia. This is especially critical because low potassium levels can enhance digoxin's effects, increasing the risk of toxicity.

When patients on digoxin experience hypokalemia, they are at a higher risk for developing arrhythmias, as the relationship between potassium and cardiac action potentials is significant. Therefore, monitoring potassium levels is essential for patients receiving digoxin therapy.

Recognizing that hypokalemia is a common side effect helps healthcare providers proactively manage and prevent potential complications associated with digoxin treatment. This understanding is crucial in both clinical practice and for exam preparation, as it highlights the importance of electrolytes in managing patients on digoxin.