Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside widely used in the management of certain heart conditions, particularly heart failure and specific types of abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation. It works by increasing the force of heart muscle contraction and helping to regulate heart rate, mainly through its effects on sodium–potassium ATPase and the autonomic nervous system. Digoxin has a long and notable history, originating from the foxglove plant (Digitalis purpurea), which was used in traditional medicine for centuries. Its scientific use was first systematically described in 1785 by the English physician William Withering, who recognized its benefits in treating dropsy (edema related to heart failure). Over time, digoxin was purified, standardized, and developed into a reliable pharmaceutical agent, becoming a cornerstone of cardiac therapy throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Although newer drugs are now available, digoxin remains an important medication when used carefully due to its narrow therapeutic range.
