Digitalis enhances exercise-induced hyperkalaemia.
In 9 patients with atrial fibrillation the effect of zero, low and high levels of serum digoxin on exercise-induced hyperkalemia was assessed by bicycle exercise tests. Exercise at each level of serum digoxin was associated with a significant (up to 20%) rise in plasma potassium. At a work load of 75 W the highest level of serum digoxin was associated with a significantly higher maximum plasma potassium concentration as compared to the maximum valueatazero serum digoxin. The enhancement of exercise-induced hyperkalemia may add to the arrhythmogenic effect of digitalis.
Nørgaard
A
A
Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark.
Bøtker
H E
HE
Klitgaard
N A
NA
Toft
P
P
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000150:complications; D004077:Digoxin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000097:blood / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005080:Exercise Test; D006801:Humans; D006947:Hyperkalemia / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011188:Potassium / Q000097:blood
D004077:Digoxin; D011188:Potassium