Management of digitalis therapy in a primary care area

Abstract

A retrospective study of 323 patients on digitalis therapy was performed in the primary care area of Skellefteà health district with the highest prescription of cardiac glycosides. The study comprised 90% of all patients on digitalis. Indications for treatment and the underlying heart disease were especially scrutinized. In one-third of all patients no underlying heart disease was defined and in about half of them the effectiveness of treatment was poorly documented. The study underlines the importance of defining the indication for treatment combined with a subsequent careful evaluation of the therapy in order to optimize treatment with cardiac glycosides. © 1988 Informa UK Ltd All rights reserved: reproduction in whole or part not permitted.