Which condition is treated with cardiac glycosides?

Cardiac glycosides, such as digoxin, are primarily used in the management of congestive heart failure. These medications work by improving the effectiveness of the heart’s contractions, thereby increasing cardiac output and reducing symptoms associated with heart failure, such as fatigue and fluid retention. They achieve this by inhibiting the sodium-potassium ATPase pump, leading to an increase in intracellular calcium concentrations which enhances myocardial contractility.

While cardiac glycosides can influence cardiac rhythm, they are not primarily prescribed for the treatment of arrhythmias; rather, their main role is in the context of heart failure management. Additionally, conditions such as hypertension and stroke are treated with different classes of medications and therapies that are specifically tailored to address blood pressure regulation and cerebrovascular health, respectively. Thus, the use of cardiac glycosides is most appropriate and relevant for patients suffering from congestive heart failure.