10 Possible Side Effects Of Digitalis Purpurea (Foxglove)

Digitalis purpurea has some side effects when used improperly, such as gastrointestinal upset, nausea, and vomiting.

These adverse effects can occur due to excessive consumption or individual tolerance. In severe cases, digoxin toxicity can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias, heart failure, and even death.

For example, an elderly person with a pre-existing heart condition may experience worsening symptoms, limiting their mobility and independence.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Digitalis purpurea if used imporperly.

1. Triggers anaphylaxis rarely

Digitalis purpurea causes bradycardia by slowing down the heart rate through its effects on the autonomic nervous system.

The cardiac glycosides present in Digitalis purpurea increase the concentration of calcium ions within the heart cells, which leads to a decrease in the firing rate of the sinoatrial node and a subsequent reduction in heart rate.

This bradycardia can be further exacerbated by Digitalis's ability to increase vagal tone, leading to a slowing of the heart rhythm.

2. Triggers anaphylaxis rarely

Digitalis purpurea produces cardiac arrhythmias by interacting with the body's natural electrical conduction system.

Its active ingredient, digoxin, binds to specific receptors in the heart, affecting the normal rhythm and conduction of impulses. This can lead to irregular heartbeat patterns, including tachycardia, bradycardia, or atrial fibrillation.

The severity and nature of these arrhythmias depend on individual factors, such as dosage, sensitivity, and underlying cardiac conditions.

3. Triggers anaphylaxis rarely

Digitalis purpurea induces gastrointestinal upset due to its ability to increase the force of contraction of smooth muscle in the gut.

This can lead to increased peristalsis and reduced intestinal absorption, resulting in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal cramps.

The saponin content in Digitalis purpurea also contributes to this side effect by stimulating the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates gut motility.

4. Triggers anaphylaxis rarely

Digitalis purpurea leads to nausea and vomiting due to its ability to interact with the body's electrical impulses.

The cardiac glycosides present in this plant can bind to sodium-potassium pumps in the stomach lining, disrupting normal gastrointestinal function and resulting in symptoms such as queasiness and vomiting.

This side effect is often a sign of Digitalis purpurea's potent effects on the cardiovascular system, which can be both beneficial and detrimental to overall health.

5. Triggers anaphylaxis rarely

Digitalis purpurea triggers diarrhea or constipation due to its ability to slow down the movement of food through the digestive system.

This occurs because digitalis increases the amount of potassium in the blood by blocking the sodium-potassium pump, which can cause stomach cramps, nausea, and changes in bowel habits.

As a result, some individuals may experience diarrhea or constipation as their body adjusts to the effects of the medication.

6. Triggers anaphylaxis rarely

Digitalis purpurea increases risk of qt prolongation due to its ability to bind to cardiac sodium and potassium channels, leading to a prolonged QT interval.

This is thought to be caused by the drug's inhibition of potassium efflux from the heart muscle cells, resulting in an increase in the heart's refractoriness and potential for arrhythmias.

The risk of qt prolongation is further increased when Digitalis purpurea is used in combination with other medications that also affect cardiac conduction.

7. Triggers anaphylaxis rarely

Digitalis purpurea reduces blood pressure significantly by slowing down the heart rate and reducing cardiac output.

This is achieved through its ability to inhibit the sodium-potassium pump in the heart muscle cells, which leads to a decrease in the force of contraction and subsequently, a decline in blood pressure.

As a result, individuals may experience a reduction in blood pressure, often accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness.

8. Triggers anaphylaxis rarely

Digitalis purpurea causes muscle weakness suddenly due to its ability to block the production of a vital chemical called acetylcholine in the nerve-muscle junction.

This reduction in acetylcholine levels impairs communication between nerves and muscles, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue.

As Digitalis purpurea slows down the heart rate and increases the force of contraction, it also disrupts the normal functioning of skeletal muscles, resulting in sudden onset of muscle weakness.

9. Triggers anaphylaxis rarely

Digitalis purpurea develops thyroid dysfunction slowly due to its ability to affect the body's natural production of thyroid hormones.

The cardiac glycosides present in Digitalis purpurea, such as digoxin and digitoxin, can bind to thyroid receptors, altering normal thyroid function.

This slow onset of thyroid dysfunction may be attributed to the gradual accumulation of these compounds in the body, leading to subtle changes in thyroid hormone production over time.

10. Triggers anaphylaxis rarely

Digitalis purpurea exhibits symptoms of hallucinations due to its ability to affect the brain's neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin and dopamine.

The cardiac glycosides present in Digitalis purpurea bind to sodium-potassium pumps in the heart, which can lead to an increase in serotonin levels.

This altered neurotransmitter balance is thought to contribute to the hallucinatory experiences reported by individuals taking this medication.