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digitalis
A drug derived from the foxglove and acting on the muscle and conducting systems of the heart. Withering in 1783 described its efficacy in heart failure or dropsy; it increases the force of cardiac contraction. Digitalis is also valuable in the treatment of some abnormal rhythms (see arrhythmias); however, overdosage may itself cause abnormal rhythms, nausea, or vomiting.
Related category
• HEALTH AND DISEASE
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