Cardiac glycosides are a group of medications that can improve the pumping ability of the heart. Options include digoxin and digitoxin.

Digoxin may decrease symptoms and increase exercise tolerance in some congestive heart failure patients. These drugs work by helping the heart to contract more forcefully. They help clear excess fluid from the lungs and eliminate salt from the body.

Cardiac glycosides can be very effective but must be closely regulated. It can easily cause side effects and toxicity. Blood levels are routinely measured to make sure they remain within a normal level.